Summary
In "The Flip Off," a flash fiction piece from the ImmorTales series, Coen and his wife Judick debate whether to throw someone overboard from their boat, reflecting on the consequences of Coen's past actions, ultimately deciding against it, leading to Coen's fishtail becoming an internet sensation upon their return home.
Abstract
"The Flip Off" is a short story that revolves around a married couple, Coen and Judick, who are considering repeating a risky prank involving tossing someone from their boat. Despite Coen's history of such stunts and the political trouble they have caused, he remains unrepentant, willing to repeat his actions for amusement. Judick, however, is more cautious, reminding Coen of the repercussions and urging him to consider the welfare of her patients. The story takes a fantastical turn when Coen reveals his orange-red fishtail, which becomes a viral sensation online after they leave the boat. The couple returns to their island home, where Judick's disapproval is evident, and Coen prepares to sleep in the cold pond as penance. The narrative is part of a larger series featuring the couple and is complemented by other bite-sized stories and a novel in progress.
Opinions
- The author suggests that Coen has a reckless and unrepentant personality, as he is willing to repeat his past actions despite the trouble they have caused.
- Judick is portrayed as the more responsible and pragmatic member of the couple, concerned with the potential harm and political implications of Coen's pranks.
- The story implies a level of fame or notoriety associated with Coen's fishtail, as it becomes an internet sensation, indicating a blend of the fantastical with modern social media culture.
- Judick's glare and the fact that Coen is prepared to sleep in the cold pond as a consequence of his actions suggest an underlying tension in their relationship, possibly stemming from Coen's impulsive behavior.
- The author hints at a creative struggle, mentioning that their "creative motor has stalled" and that stories never turn out as planned, perhaps reflecting the challenges of writing within a constrained word count or the unpredictable nature of the creative process.
