In Mary Miller's 'Big World', readers are transported into the lives of ordinary individuals grappling with love, loss, and the search for meaning in a vast universe. The rich tapestry of interconnected stories reveals the profound impact of seemingly mundane moments. Each character's journey offers a glimpse into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, leaving a lasting impression. With Miller's signature sharp wit and poignant observations, the narrative unravels the beauty and messiness of life. This compelling collection invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and the world around them.
By Mary Miller
Published: 2009
"In a world that feels vast and indifferent, finding our place often means embracing the messy beauty of the journey."
Fiction. Mary Miller's BIG WORLD is the second book and first work of fiction to come out of Short Flight/Long Drive Books, a publishing arm of the independent literary journal Hobart. The characters in Mary Miller's debut short story collection BIG WORLD are at once autonomous and lonesome, possessing both a longing to connect with those around them and a cynicism regarding their ability to do so, whether they're holed up in a motel room in Pigeon Forge with an air gun shooting boyfriend as in "Fast Trains" or navigating the rooms of their house with their dad after their mother's death as in "Leak." Mary Miller's writing is unapologetically honest and efficient and the gut-wrenching directness of her prose is reminiscent of Mary Gaitskill and Courtney Eldridge, if Gaitskill's and Eldridge's stories were set in the south and reeked of spilt beer and cigarette smoke.
Mary Miller is an acclaimed American author known for her distinctive voice and poignant storytelling. Her notable works include 'The Last Days of California', 'Big World', and 'Biloxi', which explore themes of loss, isolation, and the complexities of human relationships. Miller's writing style is characterized by its sharp prose and deep emotional resonance, often blending dark humor with profound insights into everyday life.
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In "Captive Prince," the captivating tale of power and betrayal unfolds as Laurent, the cunning prince of Vereck, must navigate the treacherous politics of his enemy's court. When Damen, the exiled warrior prince of Akielos, becomes a slave to Laurent, forced into a world of subterfuge and intrigue, unexpected alliances begin to form. As the two grapple with their conflicting loyalties and simmering desires, they are drawn into a dangerous game that could alter the fate of their kingdoms. The tension escalates with each page, revealing secrets that could shatter their lives and reshape their loyalties. Will love conquer all, or will the weight of a fractured legacy seal their doom?
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In 'Liquid Life', Zygmunt Bauman explores the fluidity of contemporary existence, where traditional structures and certainties dissolve into the chaos of modernity. He delves into how an ever-changing world reshapes our identities, relationships, and morals, leading to a sense of instability and anxiety. Bauman's piercing insights reveal the paradox of endless choice in personal freedom, juxtaposed against the isolation and alienation faced by individuals. With each page, readers are compelled to reflect on their own lives and the nature of existence in a world that offers fleeting connections and liquid commitments. Will we adapt to this liquid life, or will we be washed away in the tide of uncertainty?
In 'The Art of Happiness', the Dalai Lama and psychiatrist Howard C. Cutler fuse Eastern spirituality with Western psychology to explore the essence of true happiness. They argue that happiness is not merely a fleeting emotion, but a state of being that can be cultivated through practices such as compassion, mindfulness, and self-reflection. Through engaging anecdotes and scientific insights, they invite readers to rethink their priorities and approach to life. Discover how shifting your perspective can unlock profound joy and fulfillment. Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey toward inner peace?
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“In a world that feels vast and indifferent, finding our place often means embracing the messy beauty of the journey.”
Big World
By Mary Miller
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