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3.34 AVERAGE
3.34 AVERAGE
hmorawska's review against another edition
3.25
Andrzej Stasiuk’s Tales of Galicia is a hypnotic exploration of a region where time moves at its own rhythm, a place suspended between past and present. His prose is nothing short of poetic- his descriptions of misty landscapes, crumbling villages, and weary travelers create an atmosphere that is both melancholic and strangely beautiful. What struck me most was his ability to weave existential musings into everyday life; a dilapidated house becomes a metaphor for fading history, an old man’s silence speaks volumes about exile and loss.
Stasiuk’s greatest strength lies in his language- lyrical, dreamlike, and deeply evocative. He doesn’t just describe Galicia; he immerses the reader in its sights, sounds, and sensations. The book is full of stunning imagery, which lingers in the mind long after reading. His philosophical reflections on impermanence, identity, and the forgotten corners of Europe give the book a meditative quality, making it feel less like a collection of stories and more like an extended elegy for a disappearing world.
However, while the language is mesmerizing, it sometimes overshadows the storytelling. Some sections meander into abstract ruminations that, while poetic, dilute the emotional weight of the characters. Certain figures, such as the drifters and outcasts he portrays, feel more like symbols of Galicia’s decay rather than fully developed people. Additionally, the book’s slow, reflective pace- though fitting for its themes- can at times make it difficult to stay engaged. A bit more narrative momentum or variety in tone would have made the experience even richer.
Despite these minor shortcomings, Tales of Galicia is a profound and haunting work. Stasiuk doesn’t just tell stories; he excavates the soul of a place, offering readers a rare glimpse into a world that feels both distant and achingly familiar. For those who appreciate literature that is as much about mood and reflection as it is about plot, this book is a rewarding, thought-provoking read.