Fiction, 2017

Series of stories which examine and play with the way language works, is used and how meaning and intention can slip in the gaps. Streams of consciousness, digressions and other traits feature heavily and dominate over more traditional aspects such as plot and setting, giving moments of joy and exhilaration, but also a feeling – at times – of irritation, as narratives spin and twist on less emotive and often fairly opaque points. Great in small doses, though as a collection, quite a tough read. It’s almost as if the reader’s asked to share a worldview that outstays its welcome. There are some wonderful snatches, and this is a bold book, but can be a little much when taken in bigger gulps and doses.