The Dominant Animal: Stories

Dive into the unsettling and captivating world of Kathryn Scanlan's "The Dominant Animal: Stories," a critically acclaimed collection of innovative short stories that will leave you breathless. This paperback edition, published by MCD x FSG Originals in 2020, showcases Scanlan's unique and powerful voice, establishing her as a visionary in contemporary literature. Prepare to be both disturbed and mesmerized by her masterful command of language and her unflinching exploration of the human condition. "The Dominant Animal" is not your typical short story collection. Scanlan's prose is sharp, economical, and intensely focused. Each sentence is meticulously crafted, contributing to a palpable sense of tension and unease. Don't expect comforting resolutions or neatly tied-up endings. Instead, Scanlan embraces ambiguity, leaving readers to grapple with complex emotions and unsettling truths long after they've finished reading. This daring approach to storytelling has garnered praise from critics and readers alike, solidifying Scanlan's place as a writer who challenges conventions and pushes boundaries. Within these pages, Scanlan dissects the complexities of love, power, and survival in the most unexpected of settings. From a seemingly ordinary golf course to the bustling chaos of an all-you-can-eat buffet, she exposes the raw undercurrents of human interaction. The stories delve into the often-brutal realities of modern life, exploring themes of dominance, vulnerability, and the animalistic impulses that lie beneath the surface of civilized behavior. Scanlan's characters, both human and animal, are vividly rendered and unforgettable. They are driven by primal desires, often provoking and injuring one another in their pursuit of connection and control. A clay head, purchased and displayed as a trophy, becomes a symbol of power and objectification. Interior lives manifest in the physical realm, highlighting the visceral nature of existence. The collection's brilliance lies in its ability to seamlessly transition between moments of quiet contemplation and shocking bursts of violence. Scanlan expertly manipulates mood, creating a sense of unease that builds with each successive story. The unsettling nature of the narratives is further amplified by her deliberate use of ambiguity, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable questions and challenge their own perceptions. The stories are, as one character declares, "merciless" unflinching in their portrayal of human nature, and utterly compelling in their execution. Kathryn Scanlan's writing has been compared to that of Lydia Davis and Amy Hempel, celebrated for their minimalist prose and experimental approaches to storytelling. However, Scanlan's voice is distinctly her own, marked by a haunting lyricism and a fearless exploration of the darker aspects of the human psyche. "The Dominant Animal" is a testament to her talent and a must-read for anyone seeking a literary experience that is both challenging and deeply rewarding. Experience why this collection was named a Best Book of 2020 by The Guardian, Southwest Review, and Publishers Weekly. This book of 160 pages offers a transformative experience that will linger long after you turn the final page.