John Crowley presents his latest collection, And Go Like This, which gathers ten stories written over the past twenty years. Regarded highly by critics like Harold Bloom and esteemed by fantasy peers such as Ursula K. Le Guin and Neil Gaiman, Crowley’s work spans science fiction and fantasy genres. The stories in this collection vary from realistic portrayals to fantastical elements that have characterized Crowley’s notable works like Little, Big and the Ægypt tetralogy. While not all stories hit the mark, the overall impression is a dazzling showcase of Crowley’s talent for subtle enchantment.
The title story explores the concept of loneliness, with a whimsical notion that imagines the entire world’s population simultaneously doing the twist in New York City. Loneliness pervades many of Crowley’s characters, and the story ends with a powerful image of unity against isolation.
Interestingly, the more grounded stories in And Go Like This are standout pieces. “The Girlhood of Shakespeare’s Heroines” captures a nostalgic summer camp romance in 1950s Indiana, blending youthful love with the complexities of adult life.
Throughout the collection, Crowley’s writing exudes an autumnal hue, infusing even tales of youth with a sense of melancholy and reflection. “This is Our Town” follows a girl on Halloween, weaving a tale of lost innocence and coming of age amidst eerie encounters.
However, not all stories hit the mark, like “Spring Break,” which feels like a forced modernization of a classic tale. Despite this misstep, Crowley’s writing shines in his attention to detail and the subtle animation of everyday objects, reflecting his fascination with anonymity and the unnoticed.
In “Anosognosia,” set in 1950s Indiana, Crowley explores themes of alternate destinies and ambition. The story delves into the idea of overlooked potential and the impact of unrecognized desires on one’s life path.
In conclusion, Crowley’s collection And Go Like This showcases his ability to blend the ordinary with the extraordinary, inviting readers into a world where small wonders and hidden desires intertwine to create poignant narratives.
