This collection showcases John Fraser's talent through a variety of short stories and novellas, highlighting his unique narrative style and thematic depth. Readers will encounter diverse characters and intricate plots that explore human experiences and emotions. The volume promises to captivate with its blend of wit, poignancy, and insight, making it a compelling addition to the literary landscape. Each piece reflects Fraser's ability to craft engaging tales that resonate with readers on multiple levels.
The first volume of John Fraser's selected short stories and novellas features: The White Room (from Animal Tales) Sheep (from Happy Always) The Scorpions (from Enterprising Women) Lenin in the Cinema (from Black Masks) Where the Philosophers Go (from Short Lives) Starting Over (from Blue Light) Broken Chords (from Three Beauties) John Fraser lives near Rome. Previously, he worked in England and Canada. Of Fraser's fiction the Whitbread Award winning poet John Fuller has written: 'One of the most extraordinary publishing events of the past few years has been the rapid, indeed insistent, appearance of the novels of John Fraser. There are few parallels in literary history to this almost simultaneous and largely belated appearance of a mature oeuvre, sprung like Athena from Zeus's forehead; and the novels in themselves are extraordinary. I can think of nothing much like them in fiction. Fraser maintains a masterfully ironic distance from the extreme conditions in which his characters find themselves. There are strikingly beautiful descriptions, veiled allusions to rooted traditions, unlikely events half-glimpsed, abrupted narratives, surreal but somehow apposite social customs.'
Exploring the complexities of contemporary existence, this collection features three captivating narratives that delve into the lives of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary situations. Through rich character development and poignant storytelling, John Fraser highlights themes of resilience, connection, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Each story offers a unique glimpse into the human experience, making the collection both relatable and thought-provoking.
Two new tales from John Fraser explore themes of adventure and introspection set against the backdrop of the beach. The narratives delve into human experiences, capturing the essence of life by the sea, where characters confront personal challenges and discover deeper truths. Each story offers a unique perspective, blending the tranquility of coastal life with the complexities of the human spirit. Fraser's evocative writing invites readers to reflect on their own journeys while enjoying the beauty and mystery of the shore.
Exploring the concept of duality in human experience, the book delves into how individuals navigate their various roles and aspirations while yearning for a more fulfilling existence. It reflects on the tension between reality and desire, highlighting the hope for a resolution that allows the positive aspects of life to flourish while shedding the negative. Through this lens, it examines the complexities of identity and the universal quest for a better life.
Exploring the gritty world of mercenaries, this collection features four gripping tales by John Fraser. Each story delves into the lives of these complex characters, highlighting their moral dilemmas and the harsh realities of their profession. With a blend of action and psychological depth, Fraser crafts narratives that examine loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a world where the lines between right and wrong are blurred. Readers are taken on a thrilling journey through conflict zones and personal struggles, showcasing the human side of mercenary life.
This collection showcases John Fraser's talent through a curated selection of his short stories and novellas. Each piece reveals his unique narrative style and explores diverse themes, providing readers with a glimpse into his imaginative worlds. The volume serves as an excellent introduction to Fraser’s work, highlighting his ability to capture complex emotions and vivid characters in concise formats. Ideal for both new readers and long-time fans, it promises an engaging literary experience.
Exploring the theme of complicity, this collection features two novellas by John Fraser that delve into the intricate dynamics of human relationships. Each story presents characters entangled in morally ambiguous situations, prompting readers to reflect on their own roles in the events that unfold. Through rich prose and thought-provoking narratives, Fraser invites an examination of guilt, responsibility, and the choices that bind individuals together in unexpected ways.
Exploring the complex relationship between ailments and their remedies, the book delves into the struggles of a son seeking a cure for his father's impending death and the burdens of their shared past. As he navigates his life—breaking horses and interacting with a charismatic gangster named Emily, who aspires for power—various attempts at healing lead to new challenges. The second novella, "Seals," offers a global perspective on suffering and remedies, culminating in a suggestion of therapy that transcends individual afflictions.
