"Where We Live" by Daniel J. Pinney

Strange Horizons Fiction: Where We Live, by Daniel J. Pinney

Grim, grim, grim--as I've come to expect from Strange Horizons lately. A future without hope, and yet, the characters themselves continue to exist. This story is full of telling details. I didn't have to read the author's bio to know that he had lived in the Middle East. Every descriptive line speaks with authority.

The character's life unfolds slowly, in a nonlinear fashion, moving back and forth through time. The protagonist moves through life, ever forward, never hesitating, never despairing, despite the apparent end of the world around him.

The ending--I have to mention the ending--fucking perfect. Absolutely god damned perfect. The scene before it, even more so. I don't want to spoil it for anyone who might read it, and if you read this, go read it.

It builds slow, sets the stage, fleshes it out, piece at a time. It's horrific, and beautiful. And hopeful. Did I say that?

More, more of this, please. Daniel J. Pinney is going on my "to watch" list, you can bet on that.

Edit: HEY STRANGE HORIZONS EDITORS. I know you sometimes check out this journal. His bio says he wouldn't mind getting email. Only I can't find an email for Daniel on the web anywhere. If anyone knows Daniel Pinney, could you send me his e-mail address? I need to write a fan letter.