Using seven separate parables to explore the different sides of an individual’s personality, Seven Sides of Self not only delves deeply in the human psyche, but it does so in a science fiction setting. Most of the stories have a subtle link through the use of this other-worldly premise, and it is this that gives the stories a more unique twist. The futuristic settings and descriptions of another planet are very interesting. They are full of brilliant ideas that suit the shortness of the stories well, and it is certainly the best quality of the book as a whole.

However, the links between each story could definitely have been used better to connect the stories in a more obvious way. Short stories don’t necessarily need this link, but it was so apparent for some of them and not so much for others, so it doesn’t always work. Whilst the first story is one of my favourites as I found it the most relatable, it is also the one that feels most out of place. Although it works well as a standalone short story, it doesn’t have the same science-fiction nature so it doesn’t connect with the other stories as well. It does, however, brilliantly capture the struggles of the creative writing process and the beauty of storytelling.

The stories also carry a spiritual theme, but this is probably the thing that I liked least about them. Some of the stories are very powerful, but it’s the ones that have more of a religious background that I found quite predictable. They didn’t feel as natural and instead made the stories feel less engaging, as they relied on these spiritual aspects rather than the more detailed character developments of the others.

Some of the allegories try to reveal a much deeper hidden meaning than others, although they don’t always quite make the point that can tell Wilkie is trying to get at. “Of the Green and Of the Gold” explores the importance of a character being able to celebrate their differences and hints at the modern issue of transphobia. It definitely has great intentions but there’s something holding it back. It’s almost like the author doesn’t quite dare to say anything too controversial, so it ever so slightly misses out on the mark.

Seven Sides of Self is definitely a mixed bag of great and good, but the stories are easy to read and there is something to enjoy about each of them. Overall, it is a wonderfully written collection of stories and metaphors which is full of beautiful descriptions. There are some thought-provoking qualities, but it doesn’t quite have the effecting impact that you would expect such a personal and explorative narrative to have.