Exploring themes of absurdity and social realism, this collection features seventy-three short stories that delve into the complexities of the human condition. With a blend of humor and surrealism, the narratives unfold in a vividly crafted landscape, highlighting the tension between lofty ideals and the stark realities of existence. The stories invite readers to reflect on the contrast between the purity of creation and the overwhelming nature of life's challenges.
In a post-nuclear holocaust world, survivors in a mental hospital grapple with chaos and confinement. A group of inmates, deemed crazy, embarks on a quest to find the elusive Z Room, rumored to be their sole escape route from the labyrinthine institution. As they navigate their fractured reality, themes of sanity, survival, and the search for freedom emerge amidst the turmoil.
Set against a backdrop of cosmic exploration, the narrative follows a diverse ensemble of mythological and historical figures on a quest to uncover Earth's destiny. This epic journey unfolds as a satirical commentary on civilization's struggles, featuring a bizarre odyssey that echoes Biblical themes. As characters engage in a profound chase to challenge divine authority, the story intertwines humor and prophecy, offering a unique perspective on humanity's relationship with the divine and the world.
Two Novellas by Neil Baker
Wimble Lord explores a man's struggle for survival in a world teetering on the edge of extinction. Unique among end-of-the-world narratives, it features his eccentric memories of a lost futuristic civilization. As he emerges from a bomb shelter, he encounters a bizarre landscape filled with oversized fruits and swarms of alien insects, blending elements of survival and surrealism. This novella offers a distinctive perspective on humanity's resilience amidst a transformed and hostile environment.
The plot revolves around a bizarre team of assassins, including a Cyclops, a sentient excrement named UGH, and a former statue turned CIA operative, as they embark on a mission to eliminate God for the world's dire state. Alongside them are a half-omniscient scientist and twenty-seven past presidents. Meanwhile, God delegates his responsibilities to the devil, who must pose as Him during the chaos. The resulting misadventures lead to an unforeseen and chaotic resolution, highlighting themes of responsibility and absurdity in a world without clear leadership.
Traumatized by urban violence and existential alienation, the protagonist seeks refuge in the rural American landscape. There, he meets an eccentric family that challenges his perceptions and leads him to unexpected experiences, forcing him to confront the complexities of life beyond the city.
The collection features a cohesive blend of poetic imagination that intertwines time and space. Each poem illuminates human experience, infusing even inanimate subjects with a sense of life and purpose. Through a unique perspective, the verses reveal familiar spirits and underlying intentions, creating a rich tapestry of thought and emotion.
Set against the backdrop of the Black Forest in Germany, the story delves into the psychological aftermath of a terrorist attack that Clifton and Tricia Long experience during their holiday. As Clifton grapples with the traumatic events, he embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery, revealing profound truths about the nature of reality and the deceptive nature of innocence. The narrative intricately weaves a novel within a novel, exploring themes of resilience and the complexities of human perception.
A road trip to the Oregon Coast takes a surreal turn when Frank and Earth Goddess RoseEmerald pick up a hitchhiker who claims to be Jesus, leading to a car crash in front of a peculiar church. Rescued by the enigmatic Keeper, they find themselves caught in a historical conflict between religion and mysticism. Their journey evolves into a magical exploration of thoughts, dreams, and emotions, culminating in a transformative experience known as the Final Vision.