Cone Zero reviewed

[realthog]

D.F. Lewis's anthology Cone Zero, in which I have a story, has been reviewed by David Hebblethwaite (thisplacehere) over on the Serendipity site. His conclusion:

What difference does it make not knowing who wrote which of these stories? Speaking personally, I'm not sure, because I'm unfamiliar with the work of all the listed authors (bar one) anyway. However, the stories in the book are what really count, and... Well, I'm usually wary of saying things like this, but I expect to see Cone Zero on the lists of this year's best anthologies. It will richly deserve any such place.

Comments

[realthog.livejournal.com]

I think this whole conversation should be suspended until after Des announces the facts! Right now I'm in the sticky situation where I can neither confirm nor deny anything, nor -- really -- even comment on your and Dave's speculations. At that point I will quiz you seriously, J, on the matter of the literary transgressions you see in my work while also trying to find out from Dave what the hell is this word that I'm supposedly the only person who uses!

All this unsatisfiable curiosity is driving me nuts, you understand . . .

[sarcobatus.livejournal.com]

I understand completely our need to suspend this discussion, and will do so immediately.

As for literary transgressions, transgressions they are not, as I read these literary liberties as poetic license, and find them everywhere I go when reading. For example, Patrick McGrath uses comma splices here and there in his wonderful novel, Asylum, to emphasize imagery and concept.

Point of view narrative and voice also lend themselves to greater license, and it is in a writer's use of license, part of which is style, that I also look for clues.

You are a peerless, writer, Paul, among those who know precisely where and how to break the rules effectively and impressively.

I look forward to your quiz. ;)

[realthog.livejournal.com]

You're really quite expert at this flattery business, aren't you, J? Now, if you could only start up a correspondence course to which Pam might subscribe . . .

[sarcobatus.livejournal.com]

I have mastered the gift of freely expressing my affection for and admiration of those about whom I care -- and those whose company I enjoy.

Of course, unlike Pam, I don't have to live with you. ;P

And anyway, Paul, you are truly a good writer. And I ain't talkin' flattery, dude.

[thisplacehere.livejournal.com]

I think this whole conversation should be suspended until after Des announces the facts!

Agreed. It is pretty pointless to speculate about something that we know can't be answered for another six months or so.

All this unsatisfiable curiosity is driving me nuts, you understand . . .

And, of course, a different source of curiosity is doing the same to us!