In our morning reading: thoughts on Hermione Hoby’s new novel, Natalie Eilbert on the works of Mina Loy, and more.
Sunday Stories: “At the Ballet”
At the Ballet by Martha Anne Toll 1958 “We need her in white,” Mr. Yanakov said to the wardrobe mistress as he smoothed back his silver hair. “I’d like to see the exact line of her breasts. The skirt should cling to the ankle.” Katya Symanova stood in second position as her choreographer sculpted the length of her leg. “And the boy in black. Maybe with red trim. No…more red than black. Sputnik and the damn Soviets.” Tossing his […]
Sunday Stories: “Rain Song”
Rain Song by Martha Anne Toll He was spinning in front of the mirrors, humming, when she arrived. “Katya Symanova.” He walked toward her and picked up her chin. “I missed you.” Bumping his forehead against hers, he put his hand on her buttocks and pulled her in. “It’s not the same, being away,” he whispered. As if he had left under duress. Traversed Europe against his will. Suffered himself to sleep with the Prima Ballerinas in a host of […]