You Like It Darker

As the book’s title, You Like It Darker, suggests through direct address, this collection of stories investigates the darker side of human experience. Therefore, many of the stories imagine how people might reckon with the elements of chaos in the world and their lives, threatening the peaceful veneer of a well-constructed life. “The Fifth Step” introduces this dynamic of chaos and order directly, following a retired engineer named Jamieson who has settled on a routine in his new life as a widower. This routine is disrupted by the appearance of a stranger on his favorite bench. Jamieson considers skipping this part of his routine but values its regularity and predictability too much to let it go. The man, calling himself Jack, offers to return his bench to him if he listens to Jack’s story. Jamieson accepts, agreeing to help Jack through his journey of recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous. However, he discovers something more sinister about his new acquaintance. Jack reveals that he also craves violence, and the implication is that while he might be giving up his reliance on alcohol, his desire to hurt and kill others will continue unaddressed. Jamieson’s attachment to his bench is thus tainted by the knowledge that Jack can return there anytime.