This blog is for readers to share their reflections about the poetry, stories and essays published in Prole. Our writers are encouraged to pop in from time to time and contribute to discussion threads.
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Posted by Sophie Whitley Flavell Sun, February 24, 2013 14:51:21
I enjoyed this allegorical story mirroring the tensions between the Eastern and Western political world, both in the 1970's where it is set and present day. The anguish of the protagonist is clearly demonstrated as he shifts allegiance from Olinski "conquistador ... evangelist ... NATO" to Sabchuk "conquered ... the fallen ... Warsaw Pact". The author is clever in his use of symbolism and the point at which the narrator declares that "only Robert Sabchuk understood what it was like to die" is devasting. The feeling of hopelessness lingers long after reading this excellent story.
Posted by Sue Pace Sun, January 06, 2013 00:11:30
The adult world as seen through the eyes of the almost-child. And the seducation of "specialness" - don't we all crave that? And the shifting of alliances - hasn't that happened again and again? And, finally, the negative impact of the adults upon the world of their children. Such a well crafted story - so much can be found in this short story.