Author: Multiple
Publisher: Half Baked Beans
I won this book in a 'giveaway contest' on Goodreads.
The thing I like the most about an anthology is that it is colourful (not literally), but it is the different thoughts and voices that of various authors. Different genres of stories, different writing styles all of it a result of different experiences and observations. The Fence is a collection of eight such short stories.
The thing I like the most about an anthology is that it is colourful (not literally), but it is the different thoughts and voices that of various authors. Different genres of stories, different writing styles all of it a result of different experiences and observations. The Fence is a collection of eight such short stories.
I enjoyed reading these different slices of life, tied together in this book. Interestingly, the authors of the stories come from varied backgrounds and age groups.
Ilustrado’s Eulogy: This is the first story and I believe there’s a reason for it. It not only highlights the fact that ‘Life is beautiful’ but also suggests, that it is important to keep oneself reminding it, especially in situations when you ungratefully crib about your job, people around you, or simply anything.
The Other Woman: The title of the story is self-explanatory, however, it might be that easy to guess the climax; quite unexpected I would say. The protagonist, here the husband (Raj) is contemplating whether or not to confess his extra marital affair to his wife. It kept me thinking what will the conclusion be? Will Raj choose the other woman over his wife or vice versa? And the ending was quite something else.
The Smartphone: ‘OMG, is this how the story ends…. I still can just not believe it’ was my reaction when I read the last paragraph of the story. Trust me I read it twice, to ensure if I actually read it right. I was shocked! The story, though appears simple, reflects on what can an obsession do to a person. Awesome!
Resignation to Heaven: This piece deals with the story of a rich professional and a series of murders. Are both related? Has to be, of course. I felt though the narration was a little confusing, the concept is very fresh.
Resignation to Heaven: This piece deals with the story of a rich professional and a series of murders. Are both related? Has to be, of course. I felt though the narration was a little confusing, the concept is very fresh.
Love is everything: This is a simple story of girl meets boy, they go individual paths, meet again and accept their love and stay happily after. Though there’s a lot more to the story; it is a simple read.
Runaway: I know people who are commitment-phobic; they do not know what they are missing in their lives (my views, no offence :) ). The protagonist here, has the same issue, and he has met his girl of dreams, his soulmate. Now the question is what will his choose? Accept his relationship or succumb to his phobia. It’s a metro read, an urban tale of many of youngsters today.
Cashmere, I Need Cashmere: These few pages highlight the relationship between a father and her younger daughter. It throws options between trust/love and greed/anger. And further moves on to reflect more emotions such as jealousy and guilt. This one such story, which ends with evil winning over the good…and how!!!
What She Wanted: A person who is aware that he/she has less time left would want to set things straight in his/her life. What is it all backfires? This is what happens to Sujata, the protagonist. The last story tells us that it’s a mean mean world out there! Noting moves without any motive. A trap, once you are caught you have to strive to survive. Be good, of become bad to appear good!!!
Overall, the short stories are interesting and quick reads, and offers a fresh perspective on different stages of life.
My rating: 3.5 stars
Awesome thoughts.
ReplyDeleteThank you Arvind :)
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