Talk Like A Man

In these previously uncollected stories, Shawl explores the unexpected horizons (and corners) opened up by science fiction and fantasy’s new diversity. In her worlds, sex can be both business and religion, complete with ancient rites, altars, and ointments (“Women of the Doll”); a virtual reality high school is a proving ground for girlpacks and their unfortunate adversaries (“Walk like a Man”); and a British rock singer finds an image in a mirror that reflects both future hits and ancient horrors (“Something More”). With her trademark wit passing for wisdom, Shawl lights up our Outspoken Interview and then, in a talk given at Duke University, explores the connections between ancient Ifa and modern science fiction.

In aceste povesti care nu au fost colectate anterior, Shawl exploreaza orizonturile (si colturile) neasteptate deschise de noua diversitate science fiction si fantasy. In lumile ei, sexul poate fi atat afaceri, cat si religie, complet cu rituri antice, altare si unguente („Femeile papusii”); un liceu de realitate virtuala este un teren dovedit pentru pachetele de fete si adversarii lor nefericiti („Walk like a Man”); iar un cantaret britanic de rock gaseste o imagine intr-o oglinda care reflecta atat succesele viitoare, cat si ororile antice („Ceva mai mult”).