Riding a Strong Wind by Robertson Tait
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Out of all the collections of short stories I have read, this selection stands out for the quality and originality of the writing. The book contains nine very different stories, some short and sweet, others long enough to be novellettas. In each case, the setting becomes almost a protagonist, described with such skill and passion that it really comes alive.
The characters are fairly realistic and as well fleshed out as the story requires (which is, in itself, a rare skill), so that in the longer stories (Villa d'Este, Barra, Montmartre) the protagonists have a stronger presence, while in the shorter ones (Tobago is the best example, but Amsterdam is a close second) they don't even have names. The reader's intelligence is trusted to fill in the blanks and there is never any doubt as to who “he” and “she” are, like archetypal symbolic representations of the male and female essence. There are some pretty strong female characters who often control the situation without descending into bitchiness, or losing their feminine appeal. It's easy (and refreshing) to see that the author really likes and respects women. |
The overriding theme is romantic love in its various manifestations, and there are some charming episodes as well as some steamy scenes but treated in such a uniquely classy way that the effect, for me anyway, was truly mesmerizing.
The beauty of the short story as a literary medium is that it can be read in its entirety in a relatively short time and, with such elegant, self-assured writing, there is enough detail in each to satisfy the reader without the need for “padding”. The language is in turns sensual, poetic, charming, suggestive but never vulgar, and the author has thoughtfully provided a reassuring, heart-warming happy ending that is very welcome when real life gets to be a bit much. Glamorous escapism at its best.
The beauty of the short story as a literary medium is that it can be read in its entirety in a relatively short time and, with such elegant, self-assured writing, there is enough detail in each to satisfy the reader without the need for “padding”. The language is in turns sensual, poetic, charming, suggestive but never vulgar, and the author has thoughtfully provided a reassuring, heart-warming happy ending that is very welcome when real life gets to be a bit much. Glamorous escapism at its best.