On the Other Hand

"On the Other Hand" is a captivating collection of short stories by the celebrated Slovak author Pavol Rankov. The title reflects the intrinsic duality of the narratives within this book. A portion of these stories unfolds in modern settings, addressing contemporary subjects like immigration, refugees, drug addiction, and mental health challenges. In contrast, the other stories transport readers to distant realms with regal palaces and mythical kings, echoing the allure of fairy tales. In these tales, characters embark on fantastical ventures such as digging to the Earth's opposite side, constructing cities for the righteous, or living alternative versions of their lives. What unites these diverse stories is Rankov's adeptness at taking ordinary circumstances and amplifying them to reveal profound insights into human nature.Milena Schefs from Nowe książki describes the experience of reading Rankov’s stories as intensely stirring, noting that his characters resonate with our own desires, emotions, and fears but venture beyond the limits we usually set for ourselves. According to Barbora Škovierová from Hospodárske noviny, at the heart of these stories lie seemingly mundane interpersonal relationships that provoke curiosity, attraction, jealousy, and sometimes provocation. However, typical of Rankov’s style, elements of mystery, sci-fi, psychological drama, or thriller subtly intertwine with these themes.Adam Bžoch from Dotyky talks about the philosophical enigmas in Rankov’s work, emphasizing that the author masterfully transforms trivial situations into grand, often unsettling narratives that provoke existential contemplation.