In my previous review for issue #75 I provided some background details on the fantastic speculative fiction magazine On Spec, so this time I'll just dive into the review for the spring 2009 issue.
On Spec generally features interesting cover and interior art, as well as poetry, but I'm going to focus on the fiction with my reviews (though Michael Penny's poem 'Bill of Sale' did put a smile on my face).
Einstein's Theory - Jack Skillingstead
This is a rather strange character study of an Einstein who is pondering whether other versions of him exist in alternative universes. He is having an affair with a fellow co-worker from the Swiss Patent Office and is generally frustrated with his achievements in life. I found the story interesting but I'm not overly familiar with Einstein (except for obvious stuff) and am certain I missed several subtle references.
Come-From-Aways - Tony Pi
A linguist studies a mysterious traveler named Madoc who has drifted into St. John's harbor aboard a Viking ship. The linguist must puzzle the truth of Madoc's appearance and when she does, must then make a life-changing decision. Another strong story from Tony Pi, at times maybe a little heavy with the linguistic details, but since that interests me that's more of a bonus.
Hell Ain't What it Used to Be - J. Brian Clarke
A man must undergo trials to redeem himself after having died. What happens to him is interesting but I'm just not that into the stories written in such a tongue and cheek manner.
The Lost Girls - Khria Deefholts
A story of cultural absorption, told well. An older woman named Mary lives a dull life, while the children of her people are becoming assimilated into the culture of the Oropeans. At the same time Hana Kutari, a woman who is both spirit and human is trying to help the children return to their people. Her story and that of Mary's overlaps. A strong tale, overall, though at points perhaps a little vague, relying on the reader's assumptions of historical tribal/colonial relationships without maybe building up as much interest in the original world being revealed.
On Spec generally features interesting cover and interior art, as well as poetry, but I'm going to focus on the fiction with my reviews (though Michael Penny's poem 'Bill of Sale' did put a smile on my face).
Einstein's Theory - Jack Skillingstead
This is a rather strange character study of an Einstein who is pondering whether other versions of him exist in alternative universes. He is having an affair with a fellow co-worker from the Swiss Patent Office and is generally frustrated with his achievements in life. I found the story interesting but I'm not overly familiar with Einstein (except for obvious stuff) and am certain I missed several subtle references.
Come-From-Aways - Tony Pi
A linguist studies a mysterious traveler named Madoc who has drifted into St. John's harbor aboard a Viking ship. The linguist must puzzle the truth of Madoc's appearance and when she does, must then make a life-changing decision. Another strong story from Tony Pi, at times maybe a little heavy with the linguistic details, but since that interests me that's more of a bonus.
Hell Ain't What it Used to Be - J. Brian Clarke
A man must undergo trials to redeem himself after having died. What happens to him is interesting but I'm just not that into the stories written in such a tongue and cheek manner.
The Lost Girls - Khria Deefholts
A story of cultural absorption, told well. An older woman named Mary lives a dull life, while the children of her people are becoming assimilated into the culture of the Oropeans. At the same time Hana Kutari, a woman who is both spirit and human is trying to help the children return to their people. Her story and that of Mary's overlaps. A strong tale, overall, though at points perhaps a little vague, relying on the reader's assumptions of historical tribal/colonial relationships without maybe building up as much interest in the original world being revealed.
|
|