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darylpuppy's review
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
ratgrrrl's review
4.0
To cheer myself up, I finally started Ted Chiang's Exhalation anthology.
The Merchant and the Alchemist's gate is a wonderful short story that put me in mind of a less depressing and technical Primer, but within a Arabian Nights framework.
It's not my favourite Chiang or time travel story by a long way, but it really shows how much of a sound literary architect and engineer Chiang is, and that those stories that aren't his most electric are still some of life's little pleasures.
With the author's note at the end (something I really love about Chiang's short stories), it also shows the different levels of narrative and framing that can inspire and elevate an initial concept, as well as being a masterclass on how to write cultures and beliefs that aren't your own (from my rather ignorant perspective, I'm not an expert or a sensitivity reader). It's clear he is setting out with respectful intentions and did his research.
The Merchant and the Alchemist's gate is a wonderful short story that put me in mind of a less depressing and technical Primer, but within a Arabian Nights framework.
It's not my favourite Chiang or time travel story by a long way, but it really shows how much of a sound literary architect and engineer Chiang is, and that those stories that aren't his most electric are still some of life's little pleasures.
With the author's note at the end (something I really love about Chiang's short stories), it also shows the different levels of narrative and framing that can inspire and elevate an initial concept, as well as being a masterclass on how to write cultures and beliefs that aren't your own (from my rather ignorant perspective, I'm not an expert or a sensitivity reader). It's clear he is setting out with respectful intentions and did his research.
sakisreads's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
A sweet novella on the passage of time and what it means to live and love 🥹 This was a recommendation from a new friend and his favourite author, Ted Chiang!
I definitely will be exploring more of Chiang’s writing I think. 3.5 out of 5 stars for this one, thank you ✨
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death
therandom's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
devoutcyborg's review
Nothing erases the past. There is repentance, there is atonement, and there is forgiveness. That is all, but that is enough.
earthtopluto's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75