The unique settings. Alan Baxter often takes his readers to places that are both familiar yet strangely otherworldly. It gives a sense of unease and excitement at the same time.
One common theme is the exploration of the unknown. In many of his stories, characters encounter things that are beyond their understanding, like in 'The Gulp' where they face a strange and terrifying entity.
There are many more of his short stories. For instance, 'The Buried Moon' which is filled with a sense of foreboding. Baxter is great at creating atmospheres in his short stories, and this one is no exception. The story builds up tension gradually, and the characters are well - developed considering the short format.
I like 'The Dark Wood'. It delves deep into the psychological state of the protagonist as he gets lost in a mysterious and somewhat menacing forest. The way Alan Baxter builds the atmosphere is quite engaging.
The short story 'Gryphon' is also notable for its character development. The substitute teacher is a complex character who challenges the students' and readers' preconceived notions. Through her stories about gryphons and other fantastical things, we see the students' worldviews start to shift, and it's a journey that Baxter takes us on in a very engaging way.
One of the remarkable aspects of Charles Baxter short stories is his ability to capture the nuances of everyday life. He can turn an ordinary situation into a profound exploration of human existence. His use of language is precise, which helps to convey the complex emotions of his characters. Many of his stories also have a sense of ambiguity, leaving the reader to reflect on different interpretations.
The truth of the Betty Baxter story is rather ambiguous. There are no clear-cut facts to definitively prove or disprove its authenticity. It could be a mixture of real events and fictional elements.