Images of eccentric characters in Raymond Carver’s short stories (Based on the short-stories from the collection “Will You Please Be Quiet, Please?”)

The article deals with the images of eccentric characters in short stories “Jerry and Molly Sam” (1972), “Fat” (1971), “They Are Not Your Husband” (1973), “Neighbors” “The Idea” (1972) written by an outstanding American writer second half 20th century R. Carver. definitions concepts “eccentricity” “grotesque” are given, fundamental difference between “eccentric” related “jester” “rogue” is highlighted, examples interpretation previous literary tradition given. selected analyzed main features inherent Carver’s eccentrics, such as passivity, self-deception, substitution values, following false ideas about future happiness, others, highlighted. In his stories, author again actualizes problems loneliness, control, alienation mutual misunderstanding, traditional for literature century; touches upon themes voyeurism, appearance personality, midlife crisis, invasion personal space private property, portrays who happen to be victims broken communication, make attempts identify themselves, but invariably fail. infantile absurd actions heroes not only hide mental discord tragic inability individual gain control over their own life, at same time reflect general social disorder spiritual trouble. Thus, Carver stand on a par other world literature, particular grotesque one founders modern story, S. Anderson.