The Aspern Papers


Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)

(4.5 stars; 151 reviews)

One of James’s favorite short novels, the Aspern Papers tells of the efforts of the nameless narrator to procure the papers of a famous, but now dead, American poet. His attempts to secure them from the poet’s former lover and her niece, now recluses in Venice, are stymied both by them, and by his own mistakes in his quest. (3 hr 51 min)

Chapters

01 - Chapter I 20:12 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
02 - Chapter II 16:26 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
03 - Chapter III 20:52 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
04 - Chapter IV 22:24 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
05 - Chapter V 26:07 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
06 - Chapter VI 31:09 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
07 - Chapter VII 22:56 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
08 - Chapter VIII 28:11 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)
09 - Chapter IX 43:04 Read by Nicholas Clifford (1930-2019)

Reviews

Unusual story, well read


(3 stars)

The reader sets the tone perfectly. Short length and unexpected structure make it an intriguing little story. I listened to it in one sitting while resting in the mountains. Listening to it while floating in a gondola would be even more perfect!

Henry James read by Nicholas Clifford


(5 stars)

Professor Nicholas Clifford was an excellent narrator who is dearly missed. His narration of The Breaking Point is measured and suits this tale quite well. He reads Henry James beautifully! I was intimidated by reading James but took the plunge with Professor Clifford. I have been greatly rewarded! If you want to know James work don’t read any reviews and start here with The Aspern Papers. Your world will be expanded by one of the greatest writers in history. Rest In Peace Nickolas Clifford.

TYPICAL MOROSE ENDING FROM JAMES


(5 stars)

I keep hoping to find a James novel that does not depress, but it seems a remote possibility. At least this one was short.


(3.5 stars)

As I expected the story is well written. The disappointment is that neither the plot nor the characters are compelling. The narration is exceptional.

Classic novella, pretty good recording


(4 stars)

Like "The Figure in the Carpet," this book struck me as unexpectedly funny and fun to read. The male, American-sounding reader gives a good clear reading. There's a bit of microphone hiss throughout, and other minor sound issues, but no pops or scratches.


(5 stars)

Henry James and Nicholas Clifford, writer and reader, make it seem effortless to produce this gift. I am very grateful.

Great narration


(3 stars)

Narrator was fantastic but I never connected with the story. Abandoned in Chapter 5.

writer and Reader at Best


(5 stars)

Wonderful story! Of course, it’s James! And Nicholas once again thrills with his interpretation. The two together are pure delight! THANK YOU!!