The Moon is Trending

A new short story collection by Clare Fisher explores feelings of failure around gender, sexuality, and work in a success-obsessed capitalist culture. It is dazzling, playful, and experimental, veering between the real, surreal, and absurd.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Salt Publishing

This captivating new short story collection from Clare Fisher delves into the intricate and profound realm of emotions surrounding gender, sexuality, and work, emerging within the context of a society driven by relentless pursuit of success. With a dazzling, playful, and experimental spirit, the collection navigates a delicate balance between the real, the surreal, and the absurd, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities and contradictions that shape our lives.

In the opening story, "The Last Supper," Fisher introduces us to a group of friends who gather for a dinner party, each grappling with their own set of challenges and insecurities. Through the characters' interactions and introspective monologues, Fisher explores the themes of gender roles, sexuality, and the pressures of societal expectations. The story is a poignant portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of navigating the complexities of modern relationships, highlighting the ways in which our identities and desires can clash with the expectations of others.

In the second story, "The Art of Forgetting," Fisher takes us on a journey through the mind of a young artist who is struggling to find her place in the world. The story explores the themes of creativity, identity, and the pressures of conformity and expectations. Through the character's struggles and triumphs, Fisher offers a powerful commentary on the importance of embracing our true selves and pursuing our passions, even in the face of societal disapproval.

The third story, "The Weight of Silence," explores the complexities of interpersonal relationships and the power of communication. Fisher delves into the themes of trust, betrayal, and the ways in which our words and actions can have a profound impact on those around us. The story is a haunting portrayal of the ways in which silence can be used as a weapon, and the ways in which it can be broken to create meaningful connections and heal wounds.

The fourth story, "The Sound of Silence," takes us on a journey through the aftermath of a tragic accident that leaves a young woman grappling with the loss of her sense of self. The story explores the themes of grief, healing, and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in the face of adversity. Through the character's struggles and triumphs, Fisher offers a poignant reflection on the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love and support.

The fifth story, "The Language of Flowers," explores the complexities of love and relationships, particularly the ways in which language can be used as a barrier or a bridge. Fisher delves into the themes of communication, empathy, and the power of words to convey emotions and connect people. The story is a beautiful portrayal of the ways in which love can transcend barriers and create deep connections between individuals.

The final story, "The Art of Being," takes us on a journey through the mind of a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. The story explores the themes of identity, purpose, and the pressures of societal expectations. Through the character's struggles and triumphs, Fisher offers a powerful commentary on the importance of embracing our true selves and living authentically, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, this captivating new short story collection from Clare Fisher offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex and multifaceted emotions surrounding gender, sexuality, and work in a success-obsessed capitalist culture. With its dazzling, playful, and experimental spirit, the collection invites readers to engage with the themes of identity, desire, and the pressures of conformity in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking. Through its rich and nuanced characters, Fisher provides a powerful commentary on the ways in which our identities and desires are shaped by the social and cultural norms that surround us. This collection is a must-read for anyone who is interested in exploring the complexities of modern life and the ways in which we can navigate the challenges and triumphs that come with it.

Dimension: 178 x 111 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784632878