Gravity and Rust, a striking new collection from local author Brian Quinn

Gravity and Rust is a newly published collection of twenty two short pieces by Brian Quinn, a local author whose sharp eye for human behaviour and assured storytelling are evident on every page. The book brings together confusion, tragedy, parody and farce in a way that feels both coherent and richly varied.

Brian Quinn’s writing is marked by close observation and a quiet confidence. He has a talent for noticing the small moments that reveal larger truths, whether comic, unsettling or deeply human. His stories often begin in the ordinary and then tilt gently towards the unexpected, allowing misunderstandings, chance encounters and human frailty to do their work without exaggeration.

One of the great strengths of Gravity and Rust is its range. The collection moves fluently between tones and styles, from dry humour and satire to more sombre reflections, while retaining a strong and consistent voice. The parodies are sharp without being cruel, and the more tragic pieces are handled with restraint and empathy. Together, they create a collection that feels thoughtful rather than showy.

As a local writer, Brian Quinn brings an authenticity and groundedness to his work that will appeal to readers who value writing rooted in lived experience. This sense of place and familiarity gives the stories an added depth, even when they move into more surreal or farcical territory.

As a new publication, Gravity and Rust represents a significant milestone for Brian Quinn. It is a book that reflects patience, craft and long observation, and it rewards attentive reading. For anyone who enjoys intelligent short fiction that balances wit with insight, Gravity and Rust is a book well worth reading.