영어로 읽는 고전 _ 어빈 S. 콥의 입원과 수술 이야기
"Speaking of Operations"는 1915년에 출간된 어빈 S. 콥의 유머러스한 에세이입니다. 이 책은 저자가 직접 경험한 수술과 입원 생활을 재치 있게 풀어낸 자전적 작품입니다.
작품은 수술을 앞둔 환자의 불안과 두려움, 병원 생활의 여러 에피소드, 의사와 간호사들과의 상호작용 등을 유머러스하게 묘사합니다. 콥은 자신의 경험을 통해 의료 시스템과 병원 문화에 대한 날카로운 관찰을 보여줍니다.
책의 특징은 심각할 수 있는 의료 경험을 유머로 승화시켰다는 점입니다. 저자는 자신의 고통과 불편함을 코믹하게 표현하면서도, 의료진에 대한 감사와 인간적 이해를 잃지 않습니다.
특히 이 작품은 20세기 초 미국의 의료 현실을 엿볼 수 있는 역사적 가치도 지니고 있습니다. 당시의 수술 방식, 병원 시스템, 의사-환자 관계 등을 생생하게 기록하고 있습니다.
"Speaking of Operations"는 개인의 수술 경험을 넘어서, 인간의 취약성과 회복의 과정을 유머러스하게 포착한 작품으로 평가받고 있으며, 콥의 대표작 중 하나로 꼽힙니다.

Reading Classics in English _ Speaking of Operations by Irvin S. Cobb
"Speaking of Operations" is a humorous essay by Irvin S. Cobb published in 1915. This book is an autobiographical work in which the author wittily describes his own experiences of surgery and hospitalization.
The work humorously describes the anxiety and fear of patients before surgery, various episodes of hospital life, and interactions with doctors and nurses. Cobb shows keen observations about the medical system and hospital culture through his own experiences.
The characteristic of the book is that it sublimates serious medical experiences into humor. The author comically expresses his pain and discomfort, but does not lose his gratitude and human understanding for the medical staff.
In particular, this work also has historical value as it allows us to glimpse the medical reality of the early 20th century in America. It vividly records the surgical methods, hospital systems, and doctor-patient relationships of the time.
"Speaking of Operations" is evaluated as a work that humorously captures human vulnerability and the process of recovery beyond an individual's surgical experience, and is considered one of Cobb's representative works.

Summary
"Speaking of Operations--" by Irvin S. Cobb is a humorous account written in the early 20th century. The book is a personal narrative that explores the experiences and peculiarities surrounding medical operations. Through his engaging storytelling, Cobb offers insights into the world of surgery, medical professionals, and the societal impact of surgical procedures during his time. In this reflective and comedic piece, the author recounts his own adventure of undergoing a surgical operation, infused with wit and an observational lens on human behavior. Cobb describes his interactions with various doctors, the intricacies of diagnoses, and the chaotic yet routine environment of a hospital. Using his trademark humor, he shares anecdotes about patients' conversations revolving around their operations?their fears, experiences, and the way such experiences become central topics of discussion in social situations. Throughout the narrative, Cobb not only highlights the farcical nature of medical practices but also reveals a profound respect for the medical profession, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of life, health, and the human condition.

Contents
Speaking of Operations