Review. Crossing the Threshold, by Bruno Pileggi
The article reviews 'Crossing the Threshold, Tales at the Edge of the Abyss' by Bruno Pileggi, exploring the characters' fears and daily lives framed within a context of societal issues.
In the six stories of 'Crossing the Threshold. Tales at the Edge of the Abyss,' Bruno Pileggi delves into the everyday lives of characters whose fears, beliefs, and prejudices shape their existence. The narrative style often blurs the line between reality and simulation, evoking a sense of unease similar to that promoted by escape room experiences, as highlighted in the protagonist's encounter in 'The Invitation.' This collection presents an unsettling but relatable reflection on modern life and its inherent anxieties.
One of the standout stories, 'Barman,' is a finalist in the 2023 Itaú Digital Short Story Prize. It uniquely reinterprets vampire lore within a setting where innocence is a luxury afforded only to the privileged. The stories within this anthology possess the depth and pacing akin to a novella, exploring complex themes through characters facing moral dilemmas and societal pressures.
The story 'Pack' is characterized as the best of the collection, following a young girl named LucÃa who befriends a boy often labeled as a 'dog boy,' shedding light on the struggles faced during Argentina's economic crisis of the 'corralito,' as adults are consumed by concerns over rising living costs, protests, and state repression. Pileggi's work serves as a critical mirror to contemporary society, prompting readers to reflect on their own realities through the lens of his characters' experiences.