I hate selkie stories. They're always about how you went up to the attic to look for a book, and you found a disgusting old coat and brought it downstairs between finger and thumb and said "What's this?", and you never saw your mom again.
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The quote reflects a strong disdain for the trope of selkie stories, which often involve a protagonist discovering an old coat that leads to unexpected and tragic consequences, such as the loss of a loved one. The speaker's frustration stems from the repetitive nature of these narratives, particularly the predictable storyline of finding something seemingly innocuous that results in significant emotional turmoil.
This commentary by Peter S. Beagle in "The New Voices of Fantasy" highlights how common themes in fantasy can become formulaic and lose their impact. By criticizing the typical structure of selkie tales, Beagle invites readers to think critically about storytelling conventions and their emotional resonance, suggesting a desire for deeper, more innovative narratives that transcend familiar patterns.
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