David Podlipny

Mild Narcotics: A Collection of Short Stories David Podlipny

Mild Narcotics is a collection that fascinates and disturbs in equal doses-15 short stories that revel in the absurdity of everyday life.

In "Mr. Punk Rock," a couple decides to deal with their cockatoo's vocalizing in a very direct, hands-on manner; in "Pomerium," a man's commute turns uncomfortable as passengers stare crossly at him for no apparent reason, coming to a head in the elevator on his way to the surface; and in "The Cove," fed up with the beachgoers, especially the omnipresent stench of their sunscreen, a diver devises a diabolical plan to scare them all straight.

Macabre, wild, enigmatic, caustic, this distinct collection lifts the veil of decorum-under which commonplace cruelty, humor, and unconventional beauty all flourish-and then stretches it well past its breaking point.