I’m still working my way through How Long ’til Black Future Month by NK Jemisin. I’ve delved into more short stories, and some of them feel like a precursor to the Broken Earth trilogy, especially considering NK Jemisin wrote these stories before crafting the trilogy. It’s fascinating to see her work out the world and ideas that would later become prominent in her more well-known series.

Stone Hunger

One intriguing aspect in this collection is the concept of origins and the ability to sense others. In one story, the protagonist refers to a man as the “vinegar man” because, somehow, the characters in this world can get a taste of each other. This nuanced detail, exploring how individuals can perceive and experience the essence of others, wasn’t explicitly discussed in the first book of The Fifth Season. It adds a unique layer to the narrative, and I’m curious if Jemisin further develops or references this concept in other works. It’s a minor detail, but it enriches the storytelling and adds depth to the world she’s constructing.

In this collection, the term “alabaster” is mentioned, referring, I assume, to an actual stone. It’s interesting to note that in The Fifth Season, Jemisin uses this word as a name for one of the characters, adding a layer of connection between her various works. Additionally, the stone eaters, a mysterious group, get more attention in some stories, although we don’t uncover much new information about them. Their motivations and alignment with certain origins remain elusive, leaving a sense of intrigue and mystery in the narrative.

One particular story stands out where a stone eater appears to assist a determined girl seeking revenge on an orogene who destroyed her town. The tale explores complex concepts, and the girl’s quest for vengeance raises questions about the stone eaters’ role in the world. While the specifics of their motivations and alliances with orogenes remain unclear, the narrative presents thought-provoking scenarios. The girl’s actions and the subsequent reactions of the town’s leader highlight moral dilemmas and the complexities of justice in this fictional world. The story prompts reflection on the consequences of revenge and the blurred lines between justice and citizenship.

Cuisine des Memoires (Spoilers)

In this collection, there’s a notable story that unfolds at a special restaurant with a unique ability to recreate meals from any day in history. The emotional depth of this narrative stems from the couple’s experience. The woman takes her boyfriend to this restaurant as a special birthday surprise, where they discover the restaurant’s seemingly magical power. The boyfriend, initially skeptical, receives a meal identical to one shared with his ex-wife years ago. The emotional weight of the story becomes apparent as he uncovers the secret in the kitchen, revealing a poignant moment from his past.

The storytelling skillfully explores complex emotions, touching on themes of nostalgia, love, and the intricacies of memory. The boyfriend’s encounter with a faded memory of his ex-wife cooking the same dish elicits a range of feelings. The simplicity of the narrative is overshadowed by the profound impact it has on the characters. The girlfriend’s disappointment reflects an awareness of the emotional significance of the recreated meal, revealing the complexities of relationships and the lasting impact of shared moments. This story serves as a poignant exploration of memory, love, and the ways in which the past can unexpectedly shape the present.

In another interesting story, the protagonist’s actions at the special restaurant, though initially driven by skepticism, take an unexpected turn. Despite being warned against entering the kitchen, he disobeys and unveils the secret behind the restaurant’s ability to recreate meals from any moment in history. Unfortunately, his actions, viewed as disrespectful, become a source of hurt for his girlfriend.

To make amends, the protagonist introduces her to a recently widowed man, with the unexpected outcome of an engagement. This twist adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, as the protagonist grapples with the consequences of his choices. The emotional weight of the story is further heightened as he realizes the role he played in the dissolution of his marriage. The interconnectedness of relationships, the unintended consequences of actions, and the exploration of reawakened emotions contribute to the depth of this particular narrative.

The Elevator Dancer

Additionally, there’s a unique tale set in what seems to be an oppressive society, where a man observes a woman dancing in an elevator. The mystery surrounding her actions and the protagonist’s reactions evoke a sense of curiosity. This story delves into the complexities of expression in a seemingly constrained environment, leaving the reader with lingering questions and a desire to understand the underlying significance of the elevator dancer’s actions.

Walking Awake (Spoilers)

In another narrative, possibly the one titled “Walking Awake,” there’s a depiction of a society dominated by beings known as the Masters, parasitic entities that use humans as hosts. The revelation unfolds as a woman discovers the true origin of these Masters, challenging the accepted narrative that they came from the sky to improve human life. This realization prompts her to resist the status quo, advocating for change.

With the assistance of the lingering consciousness of previous hosts in her mind, she devises a plan to eliminate all the Masters. The sacrifice she makes by using herself as a host becomes a pivotal moment, leading to the demise of the Masters. The story delves into ethical considerations, the questioning of societal norms, and the courage to challenge oppressive systems for the sake of a better future.

Mindset for Anthologies

The overall experience of engaging with an anthology presents a unique challenge, as each story demands a mental reset to immerse oneself in a new world. This transition can be distinct from the continuous flow of a novel. If I remember correctly, I listened to the audio version of this book. You can imagine, after immersing yourself in a world and/or connecting to characters, you then have to leave them behind once the story is over. You yearn for more, but you must move on. Despite this challenge, the anthology offers a diverse range of characters, plots, and structures, that will keep you engaged and intrigued.

Original draft written in July 2019