Fox spirits have become increasingly popular in fiction, with works such as Yangsze Choo’s “The Fox Wife” capturing their allure. In Asian cultures, these mischievous shape-shifters are both revered and seen as symbols of alluring deceit. Sally Wen Mao’s debut collection of short stories, “Ninetails,” delves into this complex duality, exploring the surreal logic behind fox spirits’ narratives.
Mao’s storytelling begins with a tale of a sentient love doll owned by a wealthy individual who takes pleasure in dismantling his toys. The subsequent stories follow women in challenging circumstances, including Chinese immigrants seeking entry into San Francisco during the early 20th century. Themes of fertility, sexuality, seduction, and anger permeate the stories, leading towards a collective theme of transformation and redemption.
What sets “Ninetails” apart from other collections is its unique blend of language and imagery. Mao’s mastery of these elements creates vivid and distinct narratives that stand out even after the final page is turned. While some stories incorporate fox spirits as a motif, others feature foxes as prominent characters. Regardless of the focus, all stories share a common theme of women navigating unreasonable societal expectations and assumptions.
Overall, “Ninetails” is an excellent collection for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of fox spirits and their place in Asian culture. With its surreal logic and unique storytelling style, it’s sure to leave readers feeling both challenged and inspired.
