(Surreal Horror) Your guide takes you through an exhibit of curiosities—what once would have been called a freak show. (2,027 words; Time: 06m)
Rating: ★★★☆☆ Average
"Clearly Lettered in a Mostly Steady Hand," by Fran Wilde [bio] (edited by Lynne M. Thomas and Michael Damian Thomas), appeared in Uncanny Magazine issue 18, published on September 5, 2017.
Mini-Review (click to view--possible spoilers)
Pro: The descriptions are genuinely creepy, and it’s suitably horrible when the visitor’s hands are mutilated at the end.
It’s likely that there’s a symbolic message I’m completely missing, but I don’t see what it is.
Con: There’s no story here, and the descriptions go on for much too long.
Other Reviews: Search Web, Browse Review Sites (Issue 18)
Fran Wilde Info: Interviews, Websites, ISFDB, FreeSFOnline
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It’s likely that there’s a symbolic message I’m completely missing, but I don’t see what it is.
Con: There’s no story here, and the descriptions go on for much too long.
Other Reviews: Search Web, Browse Review Sites (Issue 18)
Fran Wilde Info: Interviews, Websites, ISFDB, FreeSFOnline
Follow RSR on Twitter, Facebook, RSS, or E-mail.
Very visceral, dark, and angry. I'd say it's pretty clearly about "normal" people objectifying those who are different. Even those ostensibly trying to help treating them as things to be dissected and studied. Showing "you" the harm done and what it feels like.
ReplyDeleteA strong message but a weak story. I try really hard not to reward that, although I know lots of people feel otherwise.
DeleteThis was a very atmospheric and (as the previous commenter said) visceral piece. I enjoyed it; I found it thought-provoking and creepy.
ReplyDeleteThere's always the most debate over stories with either a really strong message or a really strong setting but a weak or absent plot. I'll think about this one some more; two stars may be too harsh.
DeleteIncreased from 2 to 3 stars.
ReplyDeleteBeautifully written.
ReplyDeleteWhat is the point at the end ?
Well, it seems the reader has been turned into a monster and put on display. Laura probably has the best interpretation for it.
Delete