Hilary Mantel - Compelling, Enthralling, Odd

Once again, we have ventured into short stories only to find an unusual mind taking us places we don't want to go with people we don't think we like. In this case however, the journey was a gift, as the artistry and articulation of the author were just superb. Even as we felt uncomfortable with what unfolded, the consensus was that this book was beautifully written and a compelling read.

This slim volume of stories gave up a wide range of favorites among us. Many liked the first, a story first published as a memoir, about a British woman living in Saudi Arabia who opened the door to a visitor who just would not go away.

This we assumed was Mantel herself in another part of her life, before her first publication, unable to handle her health and the demands others put upon her. Her husband was a mirky character, mute but willing to be helpful in the end. Did she really not have enough conviction to ask a stranger not to visit? Sure, haven't we all been there?

The theme of doors showed up a lot - doors you shouldn't open, doors that lead to unwanted outcomes or dreaded knowledge; danger from within oneself came through the doors. Even when you led someone else through the door in hope of safety, as in the title story, there was just an illusion of help, a dead end of purpose if not of geography.

Another story that came up as a favorite was the "Long QT", a shocking story of infidelity that actually kills the wounded spouse. It was odd, creepy, somehow inevitable. I loved the description of the hapless neighbor involved, Lorraine. "It's a shame to be named after a quiche." What else needs to  be said to describe character?

"Comma" was another story that came up, the language so interesting and the story disturbing. And another, "How Shall I Know You" about an uncomfortable book tour, with the title giving away so much of the import of the story.

All in all, a great read if still unsettling. Isn't that the point of reading?

Our next meeting is at Beryl's - we had set Tuesday the 17th, but as it turns out, my flight gets back on the 15th. Can we do the 16th after all? The group agreed to change to accommodate me, but all is ok for our normal evening. The book is Empire of the Summer Moon, by S. C. Gwynne.

We had a good bit of discussion about the March book. Both Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner and All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr came up as options. Weigh in if you have an opinion and we can decide in February.

Thanks so much to Val for hosting! See you all next month.