MacDonald writes of disruption and loss with brusque tenderness. He deftly explores the misunderstandings between men and women, the nature of seduction and infidelity, the way geography shapes identity, and the heartache of longing -- for home, family, love.

Short stories.

The flowers of Bermuda -- Green grow the grasses O -- The Chinese rifle -- Sailing -- Of one kind -- Meat Cove -- All the men are sleeping -- Eyestone -- Vikings -- Whatever's out there -- Holy Annie -- The snows, they melt the soonest -- Ashes -- Work -- Ideas of North.