Pond by Claire-Louise Bennett
A nameless woman is lost in her solitude, her thoughts and wishes. Nature and the mundane objects around her come to life and find their voice in Pond, a collection of short stories by emerging talent Claire-Louise Bennett – originally discovered and published by the exciting Irish literary magazine Stinging Fly.
Introducing a fresh 21st century version of the modernist stream of consciousness, Pond appears as a detailed account of the rumbling mind of the text's one and only protagonist, alongside her relationship with her surroundings. Generally funny and dainty, although inexplicably enigmatic at times, it is a collection that leaves plenty of room for the reader's own personal interpretation.
It is therefore sure to attract and delight a like-minded creative and contemplative audience, yet, with its lack of a traditional narrative, perhaps puzzle more literal minds. However, the beauty of Bennett's poetic writing style is undeniable. Her ability to smoothly merge everyday activities and lifeless entities, such as ottomans and control knobs, with more profound considerations and past experiences is rare and uncanny. A pond of timeless dreams, riddles, intimate thoughts, melancholy and almost-forgotten memories.
In the heart of the collection, A little Before Seven and Finishing Touch are the finest examples of Bennett's literary talent and attention to detail, as well as her delicate sensibility. Definitely a promising author to keep an eye on.