Celestial Harmonies
1. It is deucedly difficult to tell a lie when you don't know the truth.2. To kick off a text with a ferocious-looking baroque grand seigneur is gratifying; a… More
The Septembers of Shiraz
CHAPTER 27Isaac stretches his legs, tapping them with his fingers to help his blood circulate. He is glad to have a sink in his room; he rinses his face… More
Excerpt of The Lion Dreaming
I invented Rome. The new Rome. The Rome where life is sweet, the place people imagine when they hear the name—that was my idea. It was just an idea,… More
The Acrobat
Palm Springs, California, 18 January 1954Sharpen the blade on the strop fixed to the wall, moisten the soap in the bowl with hot water, remove any loose bristles from… More
Rituals of Restlessness
“Where are we going sir?”“To work.”“What’s our business?”Kamran felt less anxious when he talked. He didn’t want to remain silent, even for a second. He just wanted to talk,… More
Season of Ice
1In the beginning there was snow. Torrents of tiny flakes blew in off the lake, pricked my skin before they melted on my hands and face and tongue. I… More
A Madman Dreams of Turing Machines
There is no beginning. I’ve tried to invent one but it was a lie and I don’t want to be a liar. This story will end where it began,… More
A Gloom Is Cast Upon the Ancient Steps
Chapter 2. Claimants to the InheritanceHe didn’t recognize his aunt Tatyana Leonidovna in the old woman who met him on the platform. “The years had left an indelible imprint… More