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City Solipsism
Have you ever been on a train, bus, metro/subway -- or any other shared space with strangers -- and started to wonder what that person right next to you is thinking? Did you ever start to think or hope that maybe your temporary neighbor was somehow sharing your thoughts and/or desires? Ever sensed some sort of romantic connection or sexual tension and wished you could get into the individual's head, to know for sure?
"City Solipsism" will take you on a journey into the mind of one commuter on a New York City subway car, riding next to and thinking about a person standing awkwardly close...The man and woman are total strangers but their proximity is almost intimate, as their hands share the same metal subway pole...
NOTE: Readers seeking the over-top-hilarity of "Sex in the Title" should know that "City Solipsism" is written in a very different style. Rather than a comedic series of misadventures in New York, this short story takes more of a philosophical and psychological walk through the mind of one New Yorker observing and speculating about another.
"City Solipsism" will take you on a journey into the mind of one commuter on a New York City subway car, riding next to and thinking about a person standing awkwardly close...The man and woman are total strangers but their proximity is almost intimate, as their hands share the same metal subway pole...
NOTE: Readers seeking the over-top-hilarity of "Sex in the Title" should know that "City Solipsism" is written in a very different style. Rather than a comedic series of misadventures in New York, this short story takes more of a philosophical and psychological walk through the mind of one New Yorker observing and speculating about another.
23 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2014
4 people are currently reading
541 people want to read
About the author
Zack Love
8 books1,102 followersPardon the minimal content here. You're more likely to find new stuff on my author site: http://zacklove.com
And here's my bio:
Zack Love graduated from Harvard College, where he studied mostly literature, psychology, philosophy, and film. After college, he moved to New York City and took a corporate consulting job that had absolutely nothing to do with his studies. The attacks of September 11, 2001 inspired him to write a novelette titled “The Doorman" (http://tinyurl.com/TheDoormanAmazon), and heightened his interest in the Middle East. A decade later, that interest extended to the Syrian Civil war, which provided the backdrop for his latest work. In late 2013, Zack began releasing his unpublished works of fiction and became a full-time author. He has published comedy, psychological and philosophical fiction, and romance. Zack enjoys confining himself to one genre about as much as he likes trying to sum up his existence in one paragraph.
And here's my bio:
Zack Love graduated from Harvard College, where he studied mostly literature, psychology, philosophy, and film. After college, he moved to New York City and took a corporate consulting job that had absolutely nothing to do with his studies. The attacks of September 11, 2001 inspired him to write a novelette titled “The Doorman" (http://tinyurl.com/TheDoormanAmazon), and heightened his interest in the Middle East. A decade later, that interest extended to the Syrian Civil war, which provided the backdrop for his latest work. In late 2013, Zack began releasing his unpublished works of fiction and became a full-time author. He has published comedy, psychological and philosophical fiction, and romance. Zack enjoys confining himself to one genre about as much as he likes trying to sum up his existence in one paragraph.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
January 24, 2014
Hats off to Zack Love!!!
We all know and love the author of Sex in the Title, right?! Riiiight?! Well, his newly released short story, "City Solipsism", reveals a very different side to him. Zack Love is no longer his charming, good- natured, playful and absolutely hilarious self, but this deeply reflective, brooding, acutely insightful and emotionally astute writer concerned with the complexity of human psychology and philosophical aspects of life.I'm genuinely impressed by his artistry with words and his ability to concentrate so much thought and emotion in less than twenty pages. This story has affected me to the core and left me wondering...
Thank you, Zack Love for reminding me why I started reading in the first place!
5 very bright stars from me!
We all know and love the author of Sex in the Title, right?! Riiiight?! Well, his newly released short story, "City Solipsism", reveals a very different side to him. Zack Love is no longer his charming, good- natured, playful and absolutely hilarious self, but this deeply reflective, brooding, acutely insightful and emotionally astute writer concerned with the complexity of human psychology and philosophical aspects of life.I'm genuinely impressed by his artistry with words and his ability to concentrate so much thought and emotion in less than twenty pages. This story has affected me to the core and left me wondering...
Thank you, Zack Love for reminding me why I started reading in the first place!
5 very bright stars from me!
January 29, 2014
5 Surprising Stars
Have you ever wondered what men think when staring at you in a subway? Ever wondered if he might have the same thoughts as you?
Or were you already thinking, while sitting/standing in a cramped subway next to handsome stranger, “I wonder if [he] thinks I’ve been looking at [him] too much, or if [he’s] even noticed me looking at [him].” … or maybe: “What are the odds that [he’ll] actually get off at my stop?”
Did these thoughts ever cross your mind? Wishing he was heading in your direction and secretly hoping he’ll say hi to you, invite you to quick coffee (not quicky!!), or just wait to see if he’s checking you out, too.
Well ladies, if you had all these thoughts then you’re not too different from me or Jack (from the story) – yep, everything I just wrote above were his thoughts when standing next to Florence; a beautiful woman with long dark hair who made his mind go on a crazy what-if ride.
Zack Love’s City Solipsism gives you a small glimpse into the mind of a man, proving us ladies that our minds are not so different than from men ;)
I enjoyed this short story a lot because Zack dived into a topic that was new to me and totally caught my interest. I love being in someone else’s head and it’s always enjoyable to read that I’m not alone having such thoughts when an attractive person stands in front/next to you.
If you’re as curious as I've been, wanting to spend some time in a man’s head,getting the insides, then this is the story for you –I highly recommend it. This story made me laugh and giggle; it also reminded me (too often) about my own silly, crazy what-if moments LOL.
NOTE: Be aware that this is INDEED a SHORT-STORY (23pg to be exact!); so don’t complain afterwards. You can only complain if you say you wished it would have been longer *grin.
Now you wonder even more why I give a 23page long short-story 5 stars??
I’ll tell you why (and nope I’m not fan-girling over a male author etc):
Even though it’s a very short story, the quality of what is actually written is higher than in most novellas or books I’ve read recently -it stands out, to be honest. Zack convinced me with CS that he's a talented writer and that he has a colorful way with words that leave no questions/doubts when reading his piece of fiction (even though I wondered how much is really just fiction ;) ). All this made it an easy, fast-paced and enjoyable read without any awkward phrases or out of place wording. So, I had to be objective and therefore came to the conclusion what he delivered to his readers/me deserves 5 stars.
I’m looking forward to read more from him; he is indeed kind of a unicorn in this female dominated area. I’ll keep an eye out for his upcoming books but not because of the fact that he’s a man, no, it’s because of his story’s originality –they’re refreshing!
Have you ever wondered what men think when staring at you in a subway? Ever wondered if he might have the same thoughts as you?
Or were you already thinking, while sitting/standing in a cramped subway next to handsome stranger, “I wonder if [he] thinks I’ve been looking at [him] too much, or if [he’s] even noticed me looking at [him].” … or maybe: “What are the odds that [he’ll] actually get off at my stop?”
Did these thoughts ever cross your mind? Wishing he was heading in your direction and secretly hoping he’ll say hi to you, invite you to quick coffee (not quicky!!), or just wait to see if he’s checking you out, too.
Well ladies, if you had all these thoughts then you’re not too different from me or Jack (from the story) – yep, everything I just wrote above were his thoughts when standing next to Florence; a beautiful woman with long dark hair who made his mind go on a crazy what-if ride.
Zack Love’s City Solipsism gives you a small glimpse into the mind of a man, proving us ladies that our minds are not so different than from men ;)
I enjoyed this short story a lot because Zack dived into a topic that was new to me and totally caught my interest. I love being in someone else’s head and it’s always enjoyable to read that I’m not alone having such thoughts when an attractive person stands in front/next to you.
If you’re as curious as I've been, wanting to spend some time in a man’s head,getting the insides, then this is the story for you –I highly recommend it. This story made me laugh and giggle; it also reminded me (too often) about my own silly, crazy what-if moments LOL.
NOTE: Be aware that this is INDEED a SHORT-STORY (23pg to be exact!); so don’t complain afterwards. You can only complain if you say you wished it would have been longer *grin.
Now you wonder even more why I give a 23page long short-story 5 stars??
I’ll tell you why (and nope I’m not fan-girling over a male author etc):
Even though it’s a very short story, the quality of what is actually written is higher than in most novellas or books I’ve read recently -it stands out, to be honest. Zack convinced me with CS that he's a talented writer and that he has a colorful way with words that leave no questions/doubts when reading his piece of fiction (even though I wondered how much is really just fiction ;) ). All this made it an easy, fast-paced and enjoyable read without any awkward phrases or out of place wording. So, I had to be objective and therefore came to the conclusion what he delivered to his readers/me deserves 5 stars.
I’m looking forward to read more from him; he is indeed kind of a unicorn in this female dominated area. I’ll keep an eye out for his upcoming books but not because of the fact that he’s a man, no, it’s because of his story’s originality –they’re refreshing!
January 23, 2014
Another great story from Zack Love, five full bright shiny gold stars ...
City Solipsism : A Short Story is written from a man’s POV and what a wonderful perspective it is. Riding the subway thoughts are being pondered regarding a chance meeting with “Florence” who he meets on his commute to work. He ponders previous experiences and future possibilities and puts a humorous spin on them.
This very short story (too short if you ask me) was a wonderful read. I enjoyed the 20 pages of Zack Love’s writing. Zack’s standard of writing is fantastic and there’s an ending that I didn’t expect and I laughed out loud. Awesome short story by an awesome author. Five full bright shiny gold stars for Zack Love.
City Solipsism : A Short Story is written from a man’s POV and what a wonderful perspective it is. Riding the subway thoughts are being pondered regarding a chance meeting with “Florence” who he meets on his commute to work. He ponders previous experiences and future possibilities and puts a humorous spin on them.
This very short story (too short if you ask me) was a wonderful read. I enjoyed the 20 pages of Zack Love’s writing. Zack’s standard of writing is fantastic and there’s an ending that I didn’t expect and I laughed out loud. Awesome short story by an awesome author. Five full bright shiny gold stars for Zack Love.
January 23, 2014
Usually a quickie does not satisfy me but Zack Love doesn't do an ordinary quickie. No, he more than satisfied me with this one. AND he did it without SEX. That's right, Zack can bring satisfaction without even using SEX. That is skill. We encounter a man on a subway who meets a woman. Now, I will admit I think men are shallow minded creatures and was expecting to hear how he was thinking about her chest size or what type of underwear she wore, but Zack through a curve ball at me. So ride along on the New York Subway with this man and see how he decides how to handle this encounter. Once you get to the end you are going to laugh and say to yourself "That is not what I expected to happen". AND if a quickie isn't your thing no matter how good the person is, then check out Zack's Full Length and read Sex in the Title. That will bring a smile of satisfaction to your face.
April 5, 2014
I have similar encounter's riding to and from work every day on the bus but i've never really stopped to think the situation through all that much as i usually have my face in a book. After reading this short story I will be looking at it from a different perspective from now on.
Delving into this guys mind was very intriguing, weird and wonderful all at the same time. Having thoughts and mini dreams about another person when you've not uttered a single word to them, surely we can all empathise with this as we've all been there, (daydreaming) whether its about someone or something, but to actually have the courage to do anything about it is admiring in the least.
The ending made me laugh but also I thought aaahhhh man strike out!!
Zack Love again gets into the zone and delivers another excellant read.
Delving into this guys mind was very intriguing, weird and wonderful all at the same time. Having thoughts and mini dreams about another person when you've not uttered a single word to them, surely we can all empathise with this as we've all been there, (daydreaming) whether its about someone or something, but to actually have the courage to do anything about it is admiring in the least.
The ending made me laugh but also I thought aaahhhh man strike out!!
Zack Love again gets into the zone and delivers another excellant read.
January 29, 2014
Reviewer : Kaylene - Magic Within The Pages
Rating : 5 Stars
City Solipsism : A Short Story is written from a man’s POV and what a wonderful perspective it is. Riding the subway thoughts are being pondered regarding a chance meeting with “Florence” who he meets on his commute to work. He ponders previous experiences and future possibilities and puts a humorous spin on them.
This very short story (too short if you ask me) was a wonderful read. I enjoyed the 20 pages of Zack Love’s writing. Zack’s standard of writing is fantastic and there’s an ending that I didn’t expect and I laughed out loud. Awesome short story by an awesome author. Five full bright shiny gold stars for Zack Love.
Rating : 5 Stars
City Solipsism : A Short Story is written from a man’s POV and what a wonderful perspective it is. Riding the subway thoughts are being pondered regarding a chance meeting with “Florence” who he meets on his commute to work. He ponders previous experiences and future possibilities and puts a humorous spin on them.
This very short story (too short if you ask me) was a wonderful read. I enjoyed the 20 pages of Zack Love’s writing. Zack’s standard of writing is fantastic and there’s an ending that I didn’t expect and I laughed out loud. Awesome short story by an awesome author. Five full bright shiny gold stars for Zack Love.
January 22, 2014
I recently came across a short story from author Zack Love. The story was simple and eloquent. How many of us ponder the thoughts of another during a random encounter? We all have asked the questions - should I or shouldn't I put myself out there? A passing glance, a gently brush of hands only to find yourself daydreaming of your future together. This tale puts all those fears and inquires into a delightful tale while you ask yourself - will he have the courage to talk to her or just let the moment fade away?
I found this short story delightful AND insightful. Those are two things not easily accomplished when the story is less than 20 pages. Wonderfully written with a great ending."
I found this short story delightful AND insightful. Those are two things not easily accomplished when the story is less than 20 pages. Wonderfully written with a great ending."
July 29, 2016
The thing I truly love about Zack Love's writing (Sex in the Title is a MUST READ!) is that he writes with a respect to the reader.
There is no dulling down stories, writing ridiculous fiction that will never happen.. it's smart, emotive, honest and descriptive putting you there in the moment with the his characters.
What I felt spoke to me with this short story is the authentic human behaviour that is experienced every day but rarely expressed.
The last few lines reflect his witty style of writing that was displayed in Sex in the Title.. can't wait to read more from this great new author, he has a certain je ne sais quois that renders me intrigued for what is to come!
There is no dulling down stories, writing ridiculous fiction that will never happen.. it's smart, emotive, honest and descriptive putting you there in the moment with the his characters.
What I felt spoke to me with this short story is the authentic human behaviour that is experienced every day but rarely expressed.
The last few lines reflect his witty style of writing that was displayed in Sex in the Title.. can't wait to read more from this great new author, he has a certain je ne sais quois that renders me intrigued for what is to come!
January 22, 2014
well i have a few things to say about this short story !! If you travel by train or subways frequently i doubt you will ever look around you again in the same light, and if you don't travel by train or subway then still read it, for an inside look at the travellers, their hopes and expectations of the journey !!
Guy see's attractive woman and ponders and muse's about life and maybe just maybe gettin it on with her and who knows what else?? Marriage? kids?
This one has a little sting in the tail!!! Definitely had me laughing till i had sore ribs !!!!!
GRAB IT WHILE YOU CAN !!
Guy see's attractive woman and ponders and muse's about life and maybe just maybe gettin it on with her and who knows what else?? Marriage? kids?
This one has a little sting in the tail!!! Definitely had me laughing till i had sore ribs !!!!!
GRAB IT WHILE YOU CAN !!
January 25, 2014
I can totally releate to it Funny I know, but think about this, have you ever daydream? Picture ever loving scenarios, married, kids the hole nine yards with that sexy guy just standing in from of you in the train? City Solipsism gives you a bliss to it but with a men POV!! And in the end you'll LMAO ;) Love it!!
January 25, 2014
Its onlt 17 pagess but I really enjoyed it, a nice quick read,not Zack's usual style but I thoroughlt enjoyed this one and the ending was great
January 28, 2014
I have to say it's refreshing to know that men are apprehensive about speaking to women they have just met. In today's literary fiction it's all too much 'alpha male' this and 'dominate' that, which gives a very false glance into the often female interpreted male psyche. That's not to say I don't enjoy reading that stuff! If it's hot, bring it on!! But yes I enjoyed this honest short story. It's just a shame things didn't progress for him, after all I'm a hopeless romantic and I would've enjoyed the male POV of that. So maybe Zack could write something 'Dominatingly Alpha Hot' just to quench my thirst! How about it?? Well done x a good honest short x
September 9, 2016
I really enjoyed this short story by Zack Love! City Solipsism is written in a guy's POV and in it, we get a glimpse into the mind of a man, Jack, who is taking his normal, boring commute into his NYC job. Boring until he spots an attractive woman who just so happens to board the same subway car as Jack and shares the same metal pole with him. Intrigued by this beauty, Jack shares with us his thoughts, memories, hope and desires,all invoked by this mysterious, beautiful stranger, and the ending? SO Zack Love! :) Beautifully written! Great Read!
April 4, 2014
This was a sweet story told by Jack about his short encounter with Florence one morning on the commute to work. You get to see the pictures running though his mind as he reminisces about past experiences, all the while traveling on the train to work. The best part is that Zack Love puts a humorous spin on the story that only he can deliver and we love him for it!
December 2, 2014
This engaging story takes the reader on a journey that spans more than the New York subway ride that provides the setting and context. One is treated to other train rides through the past, the sights of Italian market places, and magical feeling of young romance. The introspective protagonist contemplates the beauty of a fellow subway traveler against the backdrop of his present urban corporate existence and chooses to embrace possibility. Anticipation grows as one wonders whether the beautiful dark haired stranger represents his destiny, or merely a lovely distraction.
April 5, 2014
City Solipsism takes you on a meandering, thought provoking journey. I was swept along, at a lazy summer pace, I felt the breeze, heard the train gently moving along. I was there alongside the character the whole time, as I looked into his mind and shared in his insights... I have a secret confession... I actually felt like a voyeur, and I don't care! I'm not going to feel bad about it! Yes, I'm a voyeur & I couldn't wait to find out more!
The story explores the idea of serendipity, which just so happens to be one of my favourite words and philosophies: The idea of a fortuitous happenstance or pleasant surprise... A chance meeting! What's not to like? They are everywhere, if you just tune into them.
City Solipsism runs with that idea... The what ifs, the do I / don't I? The swallowing of shyness and social etiquette... Zack Love steers you on this journey, guides you along with his character, then just as you're feeling comfortable and in control of the story, he picks you up at the end, like a hammer thrower. Then he spins you around, let's go, spinning you off to fall on your ass... Leaving you to think, nicely played sir, nicely played!
The story explores the idea of serendipity, which just so happens to be one of my favourite words and philosophies: The idea of a fortuitous happenstance or pleasant surprise... A chance meeting! What's not to like? They are everywhere, if you just tune into them.
City Solipsism runs with that idea... The what ifs, the do I / don't I? The swallowing of shyness and social etiquette... Zack Love steers you on this journey, guides you along with his character, then just as you're feeling comfortable and in control of the story, he picks you up at the end, like a hammer thrower. Then he spins you around, let's go, spinning you off to fall on your ass... Leaving you to think, nicely played sir, nicely played!
April 20, 2014
Have you ever sat wondering what people think of you? Ever wondered if someone knows when your watching them? Thinking about them? Every wondered if someone thinks your watching them too much or wondered if he could be your future?
Having not read any of Zack's book I can't judge on his writing style but this book had great reading style! Makes me want to read lots more of his books. The book is only a short story of 23 pages 5K words, but its great if you only have a spare hour and don't want to start a new book. The book kept me reading to see if he would pluck up the courage to talk to Florence and what the conversation will come to.
Is it love at first sight? If there such a thing as love at first sight? Subway romance? You'll just have to read to find out.
For my full review check http://abbycook30.wix.com/abbys-book-...
Having not read any of Zack's book I can't judge on his writing style but this book had great reading style! Makes me want to read lots more of his books. The book is only a short story of 23 pages 5K words, but its great if you only have a spare hour and don't want to start a new book. The book kept me reading to see if he would pluck up the courage to talk to Florence and what the conversation will come to.
Is it love at first sight? If there such a thing as love at first sight? Subway romance? You'll just have to read to find out.
For my full review check http://abbycook30.wix.com/abbys-book-...
January 23, 2014
This was completely different to Zack's last book, not only was it a lot shorter but also the humour wasn't there that was in his previous book. This was only 17 pages long, so didn't take long to get through at all. It is told from the man's POV about seeing a lady on the Subway and trying to get her attention, all the while wondering if she is thinking the same about him.
It was a good short story, was good to read something completely different from Zack, seeing a different side to his writing! The long words had me stumped sometimes but hey i got through it! I liked the ending, it made me laugh to myself!
Overall a good short story and can't wait to see what he provides next!!
It was a good short story, was good to read something completely different from Zack, seeing a different side to his writing! The long words had me stumped sometimes but hey i got through it! I liked the ending, it made me laugh to myself!
Overall a good short story and can't wait to see what he provides next!!
will-never-read
January 27, 2014
Don't Feed The Sock Puppet
July 29, 2016
I'll have to say that this was a very pleasant surprise. This is GOOD. I mean really good. I'd have to lump this into that ambiguous "literary fiction" genre, so it would get the proper critical attention it deserves.
The warnings for other readers: The sentences are long. Not quite Joycian, but you will wonder where you will take a breath sometimes. The words are varied and do not talk down to a reader (i.e., some of you with a less-refined vocabulary will probably be using your e-reader's dictionary function). And three-quarters of the book I got was a sample of another book. Normally, I drop a star automatically for that - you don't give reviewers the same promotional junk you put in for your readers; it's annoying. But I didn't for this one.
As with many good books I've read lately, I didn't really care for the main character and wanted to swat him a couple of times. But he's very well-drawn, has a personality and you can easily envision him as a real person.
At first, I was thinking the ending was a major cheat. But after thinking for a bit, it's really the only way the short story could've ended and remained a short story.
I didn't read the sample that was included in the book (as I mentioned, I find them annoying, padding, and I prefer to choose what samples I read myself), but I will definitely look into this author's oeuvre and see if the quality is still as high as this one.
Definitely recommended reading.
The warnings for other readers: The sentences are long. Not quite Joycian, but you will wonder where you will take a breath sometimes. The words are varied and do not talk down to a reader (i.e., some of you with a less-refined vocabulary will probably be using your e-reader's dictionary function). And three-quarters of the book I got was a sample of another book. Normally, I drop a star automatically for that - you don't give reviewers the same promotional junk you put in for your readers; it's annoying. But I didn't for this one.
As with many good books I've read lately, I didn't really care for the main character and wanted to swat him a couple of times. But he's very well-drawn, has a personality and you can easily envision him as a real person.
At first, I was thinking the ending was a major cheat. But after thinking for a bit, it's really the only way the short story could've ended and remained a short story.
I didn't read the sample that was included in the book (as I mentioned, I find them annoying, padding, and I prefer to choose what samples I read myself), but I will definitely look into this author's oeuvre and see if the quality is still as high as this one.
Definitely recommended reading.
February 6, 2014
Smart. Full stop.
There was a moment of eye rolling - first paragraph - before I remembered the title. Who thinks such convoluted phrasing to oneself [the quotes around the narrator's thoughts make it a verbatim recounting]without preamble? A self-absorbed ass, that's who! Perfect.
As he layers so much detail on his dissertation of trains and timing, I wondered if he was bored from circumstance, or responsible for it? Is his recounting of European travels evidence that his world is newly small, or has it always been? Is he exaggerating past laurels, or mourning real ones? It becomes a coin toss whether broaching a conversation with Florence will promote his cause or prove his tediousness. And yet, his fantasy of her is sweet rather than lascivious, and I want to root for him.
The ending - in general terms - was expected, but I eagerly read all the way there to learn the detail [no spoiler!]; on the way, I was treated to some great observations. The narrator is an egotist, yes. And it is displayed in perfect phrasing and structure. In all, an awesome read; a real treat. [And I'm laughing at myself because it took me longer to write the review than to read the story!]
There was a moment of eye rolling - first paragraph - before I remembered the title. Who thinks such convoluted phrasing to oneself [the quotes around the narrator's thoughts make it a verbatim recounting]without preamble? A self-absorbed ass, that's who! Perfect.
As he layers so much detail on his dissertation of trains and timing, I wondered if he was bored from circumstance, or responsible for it? Is his recounting of European travels evidence that his world is newly small, or has it always been? Is he exaggerating past laurels, or mourning real ones? It becomes a coin toss whether broaching a conversation with Florence will promote his cause or prove his tediousness. And yet, his fantasy of her is sweet rather than lascivious, and I want to root for him.
The ending - in general terms - was expected, but I eagerly read all the way there to learn the detail [no spoiler!]; on the way, I was treated to some great observations. The narrator is an egotist, yes. And it is displayed in perfect phrasing and structure. In all, an awesome read; a real treat. [And I'm laughing at myself because it took me longer to write the review than to read the story!]
August 11, 2016
This book is about Jack and an unknown woman on the subway. He see's a woman in her early twenties who features hail from Italy or Spain. He isn't sure because its been 6 years since he played his guitar for coins across Europe. She has chestnut eyes a simple but graceful face unpainted by Madison Avenue, straight black hair parted down the middle suggest a minimalist. He decides to call her Florence. This book is a standalone and is a short story.
Jack to me seems like a straight a narrow kind of guy. Florence seems like she cares about the environment. The characters were really likable and I connected with Florence the most because she seems like a more down to earth kind of girl.
My overall view of the book is that it's really fast and easy read. I really enjoyed reading this book. I also liked that the author was able to hold my attention. I loved the authors style of writing, makes me want to read more of Zack Love's books. This is my first book by Zack Love and it most definitely will not be my last.
While reading this book I truly enjoyed Zack Love's style of writing. I loved that this book was a very fast read. I can't wait to read more books by him.
March 12, 2014
"REMARKABLE, MEMORABLE, ONE OF A KIND"
There is this guy named Zack,
Writes with talent, he has a knack.
He has a new story and I will review,
I applaud it and I'm sure you will too!
Sitting on a train - the world goes by,
This is my routine - why?
Youth is exploration,
Grown-up is repetition.
I look up and eyes connect,
Does she feel the same effect?
We stand close in the car,
I wonder where she goes, is it far?
My heart is beating - should I speak?
Will she acknowledge me or freak?
Sitting on a train - time speeding by,
Spontaneity! Go on give it a try!
Oh no! My stop is here,
Will she stay or follow me where??.....
That is all I will share - what can I say?
I read it! So, I know what happens anyway!
Now you're hooked, what are you waiting for?
Go Now! Buy it on the Amazon Store!
Will Shakespeare is so in the past,
ZACK LOVE is who you should be reading NOW! Hurry up fast!
There is this guy named Zack,
Writes with talent, he has a knack.
He has a new story and I will review,
I applaud it and I'm sure you will too!
Sitting on a train - the world goes by,
This is my routine - why?
Youth is exploration,
Grown-up is repetition.
I look up and eyes connect,
Does she feel the same effect?
We stand close in the car,
I wonder where she goes, is it far?
My heart is beating - should I speak?
Will she acknowledge me or freak?
Sitting on a train - time speeding by,
Spontaneity! Go on give it a try!
Oh no! My stop is here,
Will she stay or follow me where??.....
That is all I will share - what can I say?
I read it! So, I know what happens anyway!
Now you're hooked, what are you waiting for?
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Will Shakespeare is so in the past,
ZACK LOVE is who you should be reading NOW! Hurry up fast!
August 11, 2016
Have you ever wanted to climb in someone else’s head and find out what they are thinking? Been in a situation where a random meeting provided so many fantastical possibilities if only one person would strike up a conversation? City Solipsism provides a male point of view of just such an encounter. It is a complete internal dialog of one man’s morning commute to the office as he finds himself in close proximity to another commuter. The body language of the other commuter causes the man to let his mind wander in so many different directions. The reader is allowed to enjoy a voyeuristic perspective of how he believes and wishes the situation to play out.
City Solipsism was the perfect lunchtime read that finishes with such a flourish that surprised me in the most pleasant of ways.
City Solipsism was the perfect lunchtime read that finishes with such a flourish that surprised me in the most pleasant of ways.
February 10, 2014
While I was reading this, I was getting in my head this big romantic meeting between two strangers. The type that ends with this great big happily ever after. You know what I'm talking about?
Throughout this entire book we're in the head of the main character as he is riding the subway with this woman. It bounces around from his trip across Europe to how he wants to talk to this beauty who is standing in front of him.
When they start "stalking" each other after getting off, it gets interesting.
But then....when you reach the end.....
I won't give it up but needless to say this short little story is well worth picking up and reading.
Throughout this entire book we're in the head of the main character as he is riding the subway with this woman. It bounces around from his trip across Europe to how he wants to talk to this beauty who is standing in front of him.
When they start "stalking" each other after getting off, it gets interesting.
But then....when you reach the end.....
I won't give it up but needless to say this short little story is well worth picking up and reading.
April 22, 2014
Having already read Zack Love’s “The Doorman,” the excellent writing in “City Solipsism” was no surprise.
What *was* a surprise was how interesting and entertaining it could be to hang out in a man’s mind during his morning commute. Like Tom Hanks in “Castaway,” Mr. Love’s narrator/protagonist, Jack is so compelling, there’s no need for interaction with other characters to keep things moving. The brilliance of Mr. Love's writing is that Jack's near-total lack of human interaction isn’t a lack at all; it’s the antagonistic force that drives him to change his thinking and test his belief in Fate.
I really enjoyed this one!
What *was* a surprise was how interesting and entertaining it could be to hang out in a man’s mind during his morning commute. Like Tom Hanks in “Castaway,” Mr. Love’s narrator/protagonist, Jack is so compelling, there’s no need for interaction with other characters to keep things moving. The brilliance of Mr. Love's writing is that Jack's near-total lack of human interaction isn’t a lack at all; it’s the antagonistic force that drives him to change his thinking and test his belief in Fate.
I really enjoyed this one!
April 6, 2014
I was given a complimentary copy of this short story in exchange for an honest review. OH MY GOSH the end of this book left me in tears. Not sad tears but tears of laughter. It was hilarious. Completely not where I was expecting things to go! This book allows us to crawl through a man's mind while having an interaction with a female, or at least considering one. Zack Love is an amazingly talented writer. This was a very short story but I honestly didn't want it to end!
January 24, 2014
Zack Love has a unique writing perspective in both this novella and Sex in the Title! He is witty, comical, and bold.
You will get an intimate perspective of what a simple subway ride could mean to a stranger and what it might not.
Book Flirts by Jessi
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You will get an intimate perspective of what a simple subway ride could mean to a stranger and what it might not.
Book Flirts by Jessi
www.facebook.com/bookflirts
bookflirtsbyjessi.blogspot.com
@bookflirtsjessi
April 28, 2014
This is the third short story I've read from Mr. Love. He is poetic in everything he writes, beautiful descriptions and quickly flowing story line. He even makes me laugh with a witty thought about his tie blowing in the wind. It's a quick read that will keep you smiling and guessing if he ever talks to Florence.
March 31, 2014
Very good. The mind wanderings of a man on the subway on the way to work. I promise I won't ruin it for you, but the last paragraph is the best part. Just know that it is a surprise! I thought it was quite funny.
I was given this short story as a gift from the author for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laura
I was given this short story as a gift from the author for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laura
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