This collection of dark fiction/horror stories, entitled “With a Voice that is Often Still Confused but is Becoming Ever Louder and Clearer”, is the second book from J.R. Hamantaschen. After receiving so much praise by the underground horror community for his first collection, it’s only fitting that he continues to provide readers with his original and weird tales. True to his talent, Hamantaschen explores more than just the human condition. His stories draw from various inspirational platforms, ranging from politics and suburban life to popular pieces from H.P. Lovecraft.
In total there are nine stories and readers will have their different favorites. The two that really stood out for me were the first, Vernichtungsschmerz, and the last one, “It’s Not Feelings of Anxiety; It’s One, Constant Feeling: Anxiety”. The first looks at four teenage girls who all get a chance to end their existence without the pain that natural death brings. Through their dreams they are contacted by an entity who offers them this choice, which automatically makes them question the legitimacy of it all. The last story focuses on Miles, a young father and husband who suffers from depression. His feelings of being “defective” lead him to certain darkness.
For the readers who are expecting blood and gore this collection doesn’t fall into that category. Instead, the reader will go on a psychological journey that seems pretty normal at face value, but steadily declines into darkness. The author has a very subtle way of exploiting very dark scenarios and this is also where his power lies. His intentions are not to shock the reader, nor does he aim to establish a level of fear. He aims to create an illusion and then shatters it nearing the end of each story.
Some critics have compared him to Lovecraft and they have good reason. The influence is definitely visible, but what really gives this reference substance is the original plots Hamantaschen have created. They are refreshing to say the least and forget about predicting just a fraction of what he writes. The only way to see what happens is to keep reading.
In terms of his writing style, it’s rather complex and he clearly has an extensive vocabulary. It also proves that he really took his time with every story. However, it might be a deal-breaker for some. For the most part the pace is very slow, which is quite surprising for a collection of short stories. There are sections where Hamantaschen elaborates on almost every little detail. For readers who like this type of style this collection is a must, but for those who prefer plot lines that move quickly, it can become somewhat tedious. Even though I really respect the author for his great usage of the English language, it tends to break the flow of the story at certain points.
In the end this is a clear cut case of who will like it and who won’t. Those who appreciate an artistic approach, psychological depth and small details are going to read through this collection and remember it for days to come. Those who are seeking blood and guts are going to be disappointed.
Reviewed by Damnetha Jules
Damnetha is a staff writer, horror book and movie critic.
Also by J.R. Hamantaschen:
You must be logged in to post a comment.