Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Kafka Americana - Jonathan Lethem & Carter Scholz

There are numbers between numbers, thinks Stevens. Between the integers are fractions, and between those the irrationals, and so on to the dust f never-quite-continuity. I numerical continuity is an illusion, perhaps temporal continuity is as well. Perhaps there are dark moments between our flickers of consciousness, as between the frames of a movie. The Nude of Duchamp descends her staircase in discrete steps. Where is she between steps? Perhaps here at the hotel. At this moment, stuck between floors, where am I?

An interesting take on Kafka by two writers who write alternating short stories in this book. Interestingly, the SF Library has a signed, limited edition print on its lending shelves. Some excellent writing by both writers. Lots of creativity and humor in this short book. Like the cult icon Kafka, this book falls into that same category. Sometimes it felt like the writers were trying too hard. The book is entertaining reading, especially for those enjoy esoteric, absurb takes on Americana. For short story lovers, this book is an inventive collection with an intriguing theme. For me, the writing made it a very good book.

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