Fireworks

by Angela Carter
Fireworks cover
Good Books rating 3.17
Short Story Collections
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Technical
  • ID: 3027
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
  • Published: 1981-01-01
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Fireworks,' Carter crafts a collection of nine short stories that delve into the deeper meanings of city streets and weave intricate allegories around forests and jungles. Each story is a journey through the surreal and the erotic, inviting readers to explore the hidden landscapes of the imagination. The author's unique perspective and vivid imagery make this a compelling read for those who enjoy thought-provoking fiction. /n/n The stories in 'Fireworks' are not just narratives; they are experiences that challenge the reader's perception of reality and fantasy. Carter's use of symbolism and allegory adds layers of depth to each tale, making it a collection that resonates long after the last page is turned.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · 2025-10-16
disappointing 2.50

The reviewer describes the stories as experimental and not as polished as Carter's later works, feeling they were B-sides that didn't make the cut.

This collection is seen as a compilation of experimental stories that, while interesting, lack the polish of Carter's more renowned works. The reviewer views them as B-sides, suggesting they were not her best efforts but still showcase her unique style.

Quick quotes

    I got the feeling that most of the stories in this collection were her 'B sides'

    experimental pieces that didn't make the cut for her later, better collections

    Angela Carter always writes excellently and has an amazing way with words

Goodreads · 2025-10-16
mixed 3.00

The reviewer finds Angela Carter's writing excellent but considers this collection not their favorite among her works. The stories are seen as experimental pieces that didn't make the cut for her later, better collections.

This collection of short stories by Angela Carter is described as a mix of experimental pieces that, while showcasing her amazing way with words, didn't quite resonate as strongly as some of her other works. The reviewer acknowledges Carter's talent but feels this particular collection isn't her best.

Quick quotes

    Angela Carter always writes excellently and has an amazing way with words

    this was definitely not my favourite of her short story collections

    experimental pieces that didn't make the cut for her later, better collections

Old English Rose Reads · Old English Rose · 2010-11-21
illuminating 4.00

The reviewer found Carter's epilogue helpful in understanding the collection, highlighting some of the more bizarre elements in the stories.

This review highlights the unique and often surreal nature of the stories in 'Fireworks'. The reviewer appreciates the insight provided by Carter's epilogue, which sheds light on the collection's themes and the author's intentions. The stories are described as thought-provoking and unsettling, with elements of reflection and the surreal.

Quick quotes

    Carter's epilogue explains exactly what she was doing in this collection and I found that very helpful

    illuminating some of the more bizarre elements in the stories

    thought-provoking and unsettling, with elements of reflection and the surreal

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