Metaphysica Morum ends up being more of a philosophical piece than a proper story. Perhaps that is what the author intended. As such, it is a concise explication of Ligotti's grim philosophy. The Small People is a more interesting piece as it sticks to a narrative while still conforming to Ligotti's primary outlook. The weirdness of marionettes, dummies, manikins, dolls, shows up as a theme leading to the truly frightening feeling of loneliness and despair which is at the heart of all of Ligotti's work.

Hide the razor blades... ( )