Books | "Trash" Review
A work of fiction by Dorothy Allison
Written by: JP

According to the forward, "Trash" is a reference to a slur associated with families like the one of the author. The stories include tales of thievery, drinking, lesbian sex, and mischief.  There is a lot of conversation, and some strong story-telling all with undertones of life in the South.
     
The author is from South Carolina and draws from her past.  In the forward, she admits to having a mean streak, which comes out in a few stories. My favorite story is "I'm Working On My Charm."  About working at a drugstore lunch counter.  It is more a narrative of what it is like at a food service job.  She gives enough examples of the incidences that make her job seem interesting. This, in spite of the endless routine associated with food service.

This book deals with subjects that many would not like to read about. Not just the constant references to lesbianism, nor the hints of social injustice, but there are some views of life that are not mentioned in polite company.  The author tells it without sugar-coating.  Every sad event, angry moment, and forbidden topic is mentioned directly.  This type of bold presentation has an appeal similar to special effects at the movies.
 
Because of the topics, and not the style of writing, this book is not for everyone.  It is not a collection of bedtime stories.  It is a collection of stories about women in the South, poor women, working class women, and lesbians.  This is not a book to read for a few witty stories and to remember some fine
moments to share amongst friends.  To read this book is to be confronted with parts of life people make efforts to avoid.