“Nerdection Excellent Read”
Altiplano and Other Short Stories is a collection of stories about people traveling while struggling with memories of their past and trying to find the meaning of life.
Summary
Altiplano and Other Short Stories is a collection of intimate short stories by David Bassano. It tells the stories of wanderers and veterans traveling while reconnecting with themselves and navigating their personal conflicts, trying to find where they belong in this world. The stories are meant to touch the hearts of readers and encourage them to reflect on their own lives.
My Take on Altiplano and Other Short Stories
Altiplano and Other Short Stories by David Bassano is a literary fiction collection of short stories and flash fiction covering different topics for readers of various genres. The main themes include people trying to connect with others while avoiding deeper involvement, loneliness, and finding the meaning of life while carrying the weight of the past.
The author explores these themes in a minimal narrative style, providing short interactions between characters and light descriptions of the setting, forcing readers to uncover the hidden meanings.
One standout character was the traveler in the main story, Altiplano. He has a complex nature—he meets different people but does not stay with them for long, suggesting attachment issues. His behavior might be a result of the restlessness in his life.
“I love staying in hostels,” one girl told me. “You meet people and you hang out with them for a day or two, and then you move on. You never get a chance to get sick of them.”
Another highlighted character was Lieutenant William J. Bulgar in Rock in the Flood, as he searches for hints of his life before joining the military. His character is vulnerable and pitiful, allowing readers to reflect on their own priorities in life.
The stories will connect with readers on a deeper level. They are raw, with minimal detail, giving them a more natural touch. Readers can relate to feelings of loneliness and trying to reconcile with the past, forcing them to reflect on their own life choices.
The author’s writing style varies in each story.
For example, in Altiplano, his tone is more observational and distant. In other stories, it changes, but the underlying sense of sadness remains.
The book’s pace is slow. The author carefully captures scenes and focuses on character interactions. The dialogue between characters is realistic and conveys the deep messages behind their words. The themes of disconnection and the search for meaning feel particularly relevant in today’s world. The collection is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.
However, the minimalistic style of the book may not be engaging for all readers. Those who prefer fast-paced and detailed narratives may find this book less appealing.
Overall, these stories offer a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people struggling with the complexities of memory, connection, and the search for meaning, making this book a worthwhile read.
Content Warning and Rating
Altiplano and Other Short Stories is recommended for readers interested in deep, thought-provoking literature.
The book contains some mature themes, including substance use, implied violence, and strong language.
About The Author Of Altiplano and Other Short Stories
David Bassano is a history professor and human rights advocate. His stories often reflect the victims, heroes, and criminals from his human rights work. He is also an avid hiker and cyclist, often found on trails in the NJ-NY-PA region.
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