Choe Wilson's story was a strong opening to the Membranes issue of Granta. Typically, I feel as though modern short stories are about the deep introspection of characters - who seem to be overly emotional, self-deprecating, or unfound geniuses. "Hold Your Fire" was a breath of fresh air: Fiona, the main character, is blunt and too-the-point. Her emotions are only a part of her life, her goals and ambitions are what really drives her.

I think a lot of us can see ourselves in this character. Personally, I am nowhere near as direct or confrontational as Fiona, but I wish I was. As a software developer, I make a decent living often helping capitalist companies produce things more efficiently. But on the other hand, I have an old phone and computer and I refuse to upgrade due to the environment and social consequences of consuming technology products.

Fiona, on one hand, builds missiles that are used by the military. On the other hand, she has to be a sweet and caring mother at home. She struggles to do both things at once, because her job requires a version of her and her family another. I would wager that most people working today have a very similar feeling.

Full review on my website: http://inquiringreader.org/texts/2020-06-16-hold-your-fire/.