The Tenant
Roland Torpor
Millipede Press, 2006 (1964)
Limited 300
216 pages

Fourth in the series by Millipede and just as psychologically themed and finely produced, this short novel is outstanding. Of course, with its surreal descent into the mind of a person who feels persecuted and paranoid, the descriptions and some of the details—including the climax—will not suit everyone’s taste. In one scene, the protagonist observes a woman kneeling before a toilet, reaching within, and as she begins to smear fecal matter on her face she looks up to meet his eyes (or is what he witnesses in his head?). Like its precursors, this book is focused on and very aware of the nature of the human mind. I can’t get enough of these works, personally. I find them terrifying in a way that monsters (of any kind) can’t compete with . . . our own mind. And the proofing, editing is thorough; no typos, etc. Included with this short novel are several short pieces by Torpor (demonstrating more of his cynical outlook as well as his sense of humor) and a collection of his artwork. If you enjoy psychological works, you must try Millipede Press. And if you’d rather not risk $40.00, then buy one in paperback and see what you think.