Strange Horizons, July 15, 2024

[On May 10, 2021 Strange Horizons officially expressed its political support for Palestinian solidarity. The views of Tangent Online reviewers are not necessarily those of Strange Horizons. Fiction critiqued at Tangent Online is, as much as is humanly possible, without prejudice and based solely on artistic merit.]

Strange Horizons, July 15, 2024

“Pelt” by Steven Archer

Reviewed by Victoria Silverwolf

The narrator of “Pelt” by Steven Archer pays a visit to his family in order to celebrate his niece’s first birthday. Tension is caused by the fact that his father left his mother for another woman, now deceased. In addition to that uncomfortable situation, the narrator’s very religious mother does not approve of the fact that he is a gay man and a drag performer.

This synopsis does not mention the story’s speculative element, which is far in the background. The narrator and female members of his family shed their skins when experiencing emotional stress. The premise allows for a climactic scene between mother and son, but otherwise plays a minor, symbolic role.

The fact that the male narrator’s shedding of skin is otherwise limited to women suggests a connection between being a gay man who performs in drag and female gender identity. I’m not sure if this is the intent of the author, self-described as queer, but some may find it questionable.


Victoria Silverwolf is beginning the process of trying to purchase a VW Beetle.