The world cannot be trusted. Politics is unrecognisable; the terrain no longer matches the map. Take a step up into thin air – the stairs are suddenly no longer there. Find yourself on the cusp of sleep, only to suddenly jerk back to consciousness. These are vexations.
In the six stories in Jan Grue’s new short story collection, metaphors become reality, while reality is distorted by technological developments – and an omnipresent, existential uncertainty. In Vexations, the author once again proves himself to be a sharp-eyed and perceptive observer of social interactions and modern lives.
Praise
“…writes with a cracking force and mighty intellect. […] There are infinite ‘Vexations’ in this dazzling short story collection.”
5 out of 6 stars, Stavanger Aftenblad
“Grue trades well in the art of the short story; it can be unpleasant and painful, like walking with a stone in your shoe.”
5 out of 6 stars, Adresseavisa
“Jan Grue’s short stories dig out the disquiet wherever it is to be found – everywhere.”
Morgenbladet
“Vexations reveals a playful author with a sense for the irrational and disturbing in life. Moreover, in his fifth collection of short stories, Jan Grue writes keenly and revealingly about pregnancy and the postpartum period.”
Dagsavisen
