A Matter of Taste by L.J. Stecher
The novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the blurred lines between love, desire, and obsession. It follows a young woman's journey as she navigates her complicated past and present, confronting the dark secrets that have shaped her life. Through a non-linear narrative, the story delves into themes of trauma, identity, and the fragility of human connections. The protagonist's inner world is revealed through a series of fragmented memories, dreams, and fantasies, which slowly unravel to expose the underlying tensions and desires that drive her actions. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the protagonist's relationships with others are deeply intertwined with her own sense of self-worth and identity. Her interactions with those around her serve as a catalyst for self-discovery, forcing her to confront the painful truths she has long suppressed. Ultimately, the novel raises questions about the nature of truth, memory, and perception, leaving the reader to ponder the reliability of the narrative and the motivations of its protagonist.
By L.J. Stecher · First published 1988 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy · 9,778 words
First lines
_When a planet turns in an insurance claim, it could run to more than real money._
I arrived on the fourth planet of Sunder's Pride stark naked and stood comfortably in the snow, listening to the wind howl by, while waiting for the Expedition Manager to approach from the edge of the small clearing and welcome me. The Manager's name is Obadiah Jones. Like the rest of the expedition, he's from one of the minor Vegan colonies -- Kinnison III -- but he's undifferentiated Earth stock.
What this Textopian page supports
A Matter of Taste is listed on Textopian as a short story by L.J. Stecher, dated 1988 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: L.J. Stecher
- Date: 1988 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy, Satire, Thriller
- Length: 9,778 words
- Structure: 1 section, 170 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Matter of Taste by L.J. Stecher
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Matter of Taste?
- How does this short story by L.J. Stecher fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative explores advanced technology, alien life forms, and interstellar themes, characteristic of the science fiction genre.
- Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a perilous journey to a distant planet, facing various challenges and dangers.
- Fantasy — Elements of mind control and the existence of alien species introduce fantastical concepts that challenge reality.
- Satire — The story critiques human behavior, corporate interests, and the absurdity of bureaucracy in a humorous manner.
Tags
Literary Fiction · Coming-of-Age · Family Drama · Romance · Social Commentary · Humor · Satire · Realism · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Relationships · Identity Crisis