The Fifth Science
The fifth science is another collection of short stories by Exurb1a, I covered Sublimina Syndrome, his most recent book, but I’d say that this is likely his best. Although, I find myself having much to say as far as my own opinions regarding his behavior and psychology.
I thought it was very well paced, funny, and contemplative. But above all else, it is riddled with self-doubt. It’s easy to see why I feel so drawn to his writing. There are passages in this book that are almost too sad, even for me!
"Along with the surprise of this little intimacy I was reminded of another emotion; The Fear. In those rare moments when another human piques your interest, it is accompanied by the quiet panic that you, and only you are invested so deeply and so quickly. Maybe for them it's just a passing game or fancy, and in an hour or so they'll go back to their life and never think of you again."
If I were to psychoanalyze Exurb1a, I think he has this tendency to get attached to women very easily. Which, ironically makes it difficult for him to empathize with them. He instead becomes obsessed with their image, and then forgets the real person behind that symbol. Then they distance themselves and the cycle starts again. The longer they choose to spend time with him, the more he becomes infatuated with them, and the longer he spends holding on. Months together may turn to years of yearning for a relationship that never really was.
It's worth pointing out that Exurb1a has totally emotionally abused someone, It's public knowledge.