Relationship Dysfunction

Many of the stories in this collection feature dysfunctional relationships and specifically examine the fundamental flaws that make those relationships incompatible. For example, “Lies We Told Each Other (a partial list),” is structured as a list of lies between two members of a couple. Towards the beginning of the list, the lies are relatively small, such as, “I love this song” (67). However, as the list continues, the lies become increasingly profound, complex, and problematic, ending with, “I love you” (71). Thus, the story becomes a portrait of the ways in which, if relationships are founded on patterns of dishonesty, those patterns will continue to develop throughout the relationship, ultimately making it increasingly dysfunctional. The specific structure and details of the list emphasize the ways in which such problems can be general and relatable while still manifesting in specific ways.

“Rules for Taboo” is a story that...