Tuesday, September 16, 2008

it's not Sunday anymore, is it?


Well, I'd like to say that I'm just the rebellious sort who wanted to "break the rules" and post a short story Sunday type post on Tuesday, but frankly, that would be a big fat lie. I'm not rebellious. I'm disorganized. I should probably skip it altogether as I only got one short story under my belt last week anyway. But it was such a good one, that I just decided to throw together a short post.

I'm still reading my way through Daphne du Maurier's Classics of the Macabre. And I must say, I am going to be so heart-broken when I finish it. She has definitely taken over, after just three stories, the number one slot on my list of favorite short story writers. So of course it's quite exciting to think about her full-length books out there waiting for me.

Anyway, on to the story..."The Blue Lenses." Wow...I think it's my favorite yet! Marda West has undergone surgery on her eyes. She's been wrapped in bandages for quite some time while her eyes heal. We meet her shortly before the surgeon is to remove those bandages and insert a set of blue lenses. These lenses, which make everything appear blue, are to remain in her eyes for a few days before the permanent ones are inserted. Marda's sight is restored, but at what price? Sorry, but I just can't say more for fear of ruining the story. But this is definitely one very clever, very unsettling story.

You know what I think I love most about du Maurier's stories...the fact that she makes it impossible for one not to relate to the characters. I feel myself trapped in their circumstances, and wondering how I would react. And bottom line, I worry that I would simply go mad.

9 comments:

Trish @ Love, Laughter, Insanity said...

Ha ha--well that answers the question I left for you on my blog--which stories are your favorites. I keep hearing about this du Maurier lady :) and I guess I have to pick her up!! Glad you're enjoying it so much!

And I had the same problem with you for Short Story Sundays. In theory it was a good idea to me but Sunday is always my catch up day--usually trying to finish my novel before the next week starts.

Ana S. said...

You're making me very curious about this book! My copy of Rebecca arrived today, so I'll be reading my first du Maurier very soon.

Carl V. Anderson said...

You've convinced me. I just went to the library website and put a hold on this book. Should be in my hands in a matter of days. Hopefully I'll find myself immersed in her creepy stories this weekend!

I have only read Rebecca by du Maurier, but I count it as a favorite among the classics and highly recommend it to anyone who likes gothic fiction.

Thanks Debi, great review!!!

Stephanie said...

Don't feel bad. I tackeled Short Story Monday today on Tuesday as well!!

I'm so glad you are enjoying du Maurier!! And just think....if you like her short stories, I'm sure you will love her novels!!

kreed said...

I fail to believe that you are disorganized. Busy, yes, but not disorganized!

Hmmmm...jail...excused, unexcused...not that is a tough call!

Dawn said...

That sounds like an intriguing story. One of these days I am going to have to make a list of all the books you have talked about and start reading some of them.

take care,
Dawn

Megan said...

Sounds like a very interesting story and tops among short story writers is high praise. I'll definitely have to check this one out! Glad you didn't let the fact that it's uh...no longer Sunday stop you from sharing! Late *is* better than never - and say, if you want to take the optimist's view, you could just say that you're way early for next Sunday! ;-)

Jean said...

Where was yesterday's quote? The other ones have been so appropriate! I want another one! Stomps foot and pouts. Now! Slinks off into shower to sulk.

chrisa511 said...

I REALLY need to get this collection! I loved Rebecca so much and you have me salivating over these short stories now, lol.