Some of the stories are on the odd side. "Pater Caninus" was one of those odd ones, although it was a humorous slam on Catholic intolerance and, shall we say, "dog"ma. "Ma Perkins" is another odd one. It was a story worthy of Rod Serling, to be sure, about a radio personality who becomes flesh and wreaks some interesting havoc on a man's world. Some of the stories are unsettling. "The Murder" comes to mind. It's about a bet two friends make and its unsavory outcome. The story is very brief and annoying. Not annoying in a badly written way; no, it's supposed to be. It's an example of how Bradbury's sparse words can convey the feelings of his characters and it sticks with you. The titular story, "We'll Always Have Paris," with its seemingly homosexual overtones and near infidelity, is another of the unsettling type.
At it's best, though, this collection makes you consider carefully the relationships in your life — are you making them the best you can, relishing each moment? Stories like "The Visit," dealing with a mother's grief and organ transplants, are powerful and poignant. "Arrival and Departure" is a good relationship story, too, about an older couple and their choice to stay home together.
The slim tome felt like it only took ten minutes to read and it was enjoyable. For me it was an introduction to the work of Ray Bradbury, an author who deserves his reputation as a fine storyteller.
Article comments
1 - Mark Schannon
Bradbury's amazing. Try "Something Wicked This Way Comes," for a chilling novel that Stephen King must have read as a child. There's a monster paper back with about 100 of his stories he selected. Some are wonderful, some are dated, but it's a great read.
He also published two books of very short stories--some 1 and 2 pages long that I remember as being great but can't find anywhere.
You're off on a great journey! Enjoy.
In Jameson Veritas
2 - Gray Hunter
Many thanks Mark. The stories in this collection are pretty short, too, like the one you mentioned.