Big Snake Little Snake: An Inquiry into Risk

Big Snake Little Snake is a collection of true stories by DBC Pierre, recorded while on his way to make a short film with a parrot in Trinidad. It examines the nature of gambling, the love affair between a gambler and the game, and the mindset of obsessive practitioners. The inquiry was prompted by a little snake on Pierre's doorstep.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Big Snake Little Snake is a captivating collection of true stories by DBC Pierre, documented during his journey to Trinidad to create a short film featuring a parrot. This remarkable work not only delves into the intricate nature of gambling, the passionate bond between gamblers and their chosen games, but also aims to shed light on the unseen probabilities and extraordinary possibilities that shape our everyday lives on Earth.

Snakes hold a special significance in a Trinidadian numbers game, rooted in dreams and superstition. The impetus for this inquiry came from a tiny snake that appeared on Pierre's doorstep. If writers were athletes, DBC Pierre would be hanging out with daredevils like skydivers, stunt-snowboarders, and white-water rafters.

One of the most distinctive and genuinely humorous narrative voices in contemporary literature, Observer aptly describes Pierre's writing style. His stories are a testament to his talent for capturing the essence of human experiences with wit, insight, and a keen eye for detail. Big Snake Little Snake is a testament to Pierre's ability to create compelling narratives that transcend genres and leave a lasting impact on readers.

In this collection, Pierre explores a wide range of themes, from the complexities of relationships to the intricacies of the human psyche. Through his characters, he examines the motivations behind gambling, the allure of games, and the mindset of obsessive practitioners. He also delves into the unseen odds and outrageous chances that shape our lives, whether it's a chance encounter that changes the course of our lives or a seemingly insignificant decision that has far-reaching consequences.

One of the standout stories in Big Snake Little Snake is "The Gambler," which tells the tale of a man named Ivan who becomes consumed by his addiction to gambling. Ivan's obsession with winning leads him to risk everything he has, including his relationships, his health, and his sanity. Pierre's portrayal of Ivan is nuanced and sympathetic, showing the human side of a character who is often portrayed as cold and calculating.

Another notable story is "The Parrot," which explores the relationship between a gambler and his parrot. The parrot, named Coco, is a constant source of advice and encouragement for Ivan, but also serves as a symbol of his addiction. Coco's ability to predict the outcome of games adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the story, as Ivan tries to decipher the meaning behind her predictions and use them to his advantage.

Big Snake Little Snake is a testament to DBC Pierre's talent as a storyteller and his ability to create characters that are both relatable and memorable. His writing is filled with humor, insight, and a deep understanding of the human condition, making it a pleasure to read from beginning to end. Whether you're a fan of fiction or simply seeking a thought-provoking and entertaining read, Big Snake Little Snake is a must-read.

In conclusion, Big Snake Little Snake is a captivating collection of true stories by DBC Pierre, recorded during his journey to Trinidad. This work explores the nature of gambling, the love affair between gamblers and games, and the mindset of obsessive practitioners. Through his characters, Pierre examines the unseen odds and outrageous chances that shape our everyday lives, offering a thought-provoking and entertaining read. With his distinctive narrative voice and keen insight into the human condition, Pierre has established himself as one of the most original and seriously funny writers of our time.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 139 x 206 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788169776
Edition number: Main