Wordstrings - The Paradox Series
Fandom: SherlockBBC
Author: Wordstrings
Title: The Paradox Series
Pairing: Sherlock/John
Rating: PG 13 - NC 17
Genre: Author did not specify. Darkfic, Angst, Humour, H/C, Romance.
Word Count: 66,285 for the entire series
Author warnings/summary: 'An Act of Charity'- Sherlock POV, PG-13 for language and dark themes. In which what's in his head is never going to get any better, and John is nearly thrown out of his flat.
'The Paradox Suite'- John POV, NC-17 Being with Sherlock is a series of shocks, but John is game for it anyhow. Author did not provide a warning: Breath play.
'The Death and Resurrection of the English Language' - Sherlock POV, NC-17. Wherein the English language dies, Sherlock mourns it, and John revives a dead tongue.
'Entirely Covered in Your Invisible Name'- John POV, NC-17. Sherlock solves crimes, loses himself, comes back again, and all the while John prays that he never comes to his senses. Author did not provide a warning: Some blood swapping.
'Wider Than a Mile'- Sherlock POV, PG. Sherlock may know what it's like to be beautiful, but John knows what it's like to be good.
'New Days to Throw Your Chains Away'- Sherlock POV, NC-17. When Sherlock decides that he needs to be higher functioning, he simultaneously finds the perfect tutor.
'A Thousand Threads of What-Might-Have-Beens'- Sherlock POV, NC-17. John finally does leave, and Sherlock is entirely unsurprised by it. And he clearly has two options: either get him back, or die trying.
Slash rating:
This series has already been recommended in the fandom, but it is definitely worth recommending again. Each story can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, but there is a continuity of themes throughout which tie each story together.
'An Act of Charity' is told from Sherlock's point of view. Whatever we think about the 'high-functioning sociopath' label BBCSherlock was provided, the writer has made the decision to go with that and presents a convincing, fully-rounded Sherlock. Here the writer portrays a fascinating insight into what is going on in Sherlock's mind in a nicely balanced way, utilising his dark, rambling inner monologues, lists of 'fine' and 'not fine' and some in character dialogue with John. He comes across as arrogant, but John, the moral compass of the piece, is a match for him.
Since we cannot know what is truly going on inside BBCSherlock's head we can only surmise from his outer cues. This 'episode' of the series provides a realistic and believable interpretation of how he might sound in his head. And it's not pretty!
'The Paradox Suite' is a chance to take a breather from Sherlock's dark inner ramblings and to see their relationship from John's perspective. It is clear that the writer also has a good grasp on his characterisation. Through the use of some excellent imagery, we gain an intriguing insight into how John deals with Sherlock’s special brand of love, how he feels overwhelmed by Sherlock in every way, but, regardless of this, wants to be with him.
As a warning (not provided by the writer), this particular episode contains a scene of erotic asphyxiation. Whilst it isn't gratuitous but well-written and pertinent to the paradox, if this is not your thing, it can easily be bypassed if necessary.
In this story, the writer captures their dysfunctional relationship brilliantly and believably. It is a strange thing, yet they work so well together. The writer conveys very well the way in which Sherlock shows affection and emotion, the way only Sherlock could and is in character for BBCSherlock. When he declares his love for John it is in a convincing manner, without compromising the character of the BBC version.
There are well-timed scene breaks and an excellent use of repetition which move the reader from one paradox to another, each scene a story in itself.
'The Death and Resurrection of the English Language' sees another episode from this series told from Sherlock's point of view. Here the writer once again masters Sherlock's inner monologues delivering a believable 'sociopathic' persona, but at the same time managing to make him rather endearing, which is necessary in this verse as Sherlock's view of life is so dark and skewed and could easily become either unconvincing or make him dislikeable and unappealing.
This fic takes the reader on a journey of emotions ranging from humour to squick (some mention of blood (transfusion) and wound licking in this one-so if these aren't your kinks then you may have some 'look away now' moments) through to some wonderful angst.
John is also brilliantly written here, as with BBCJohn, even though he doesn't necessarily understand Sherlock's language, he does actually listen to what Sherlock is saying and sometimes does manage to understand him.
'Entirely Covered in Your Invisible Name', told from John's point of view, this episode sees the relationship of Sherlock and John become more disturbing, obsessive, possessive and dysfunctional, yet somehow the writer manages to make situations which could be construed as unhealthy romantic.
It is here that both Sherlock and John seem to be most out of character from the BBC version and their voices are not so clear. Sherlock's level of crazy in this episode seems to surpass that of the BBC version (and perhaps even surpasses the amount we can imagine he is capable of off screen). John, on realising Sherlock is missing becomes very needy and quite whiny. However, arguably, by this point they ought to be considered the writers' version, rather than those of the BBC incarnation, and therefore remain in character to this particular verse.
'Wider Than a Mile' returns the story to Sherlock's point of view. This part is much shorter than the others and here Sherlock's mind is quieter, the man more wistful than seen in previous parts. The writing is (continually) beautiful, the descriptions quite exquisite and the writer conveys the bitter-sweetness of the gulf between Sherlock and John with excellent balance. There is also some stunning imagery, particularly in the instance of Sherlock “becoming” his violin.
'New Days to Throw Your Chains Away' is also told from Sherlock's point of view and the first chapter contains a torture scene, but this is easily avoided if this is not your thing.
In the first chapter the writer describes some brilliantly detailed, perfectly disturbing, vivid dreams where it becomes clear that Sherlock does not have peace, even in sleep.
This episode returns to the lists from the beginning of the series and is an interesting exploration of Sherlock's morals. John finally finds out just what Sherlock considers 'fine' and 'not fine' and comes to understand just how much he means to Sherlock. In the second chapter, where John is reading through the lists, it is possible to hear every line of dialogue, the pauses and tone, as if delivered by the BBC version.
As well as a return to the lists, Sherlock's 'Act of Charity' once again is explored. As odd as that act of charity is, the writer conveys it in such a way that their love for one another appears quite beautiful and breathtaking.
In this episode the writer has, as with the other stories, managed to maintain a clever balance of dark themes, such as the torture and the horrific dreams with enough subtle humour-their making Sherlock “higher functioning” project, John's titles he uses for Sherlock-that Sherlock's sociopathy doesn't become overwhelming and all consuming.
'A Thousand Threads of What-Might-Have-Beens' is (presumably) the final episode in the story and is told from Sherlock's point of view. In this particular story the writer provides a huge dose of H/C and angst. Initially John becomes sick and Sherlock shows a rather tender, caring side albeit Sherlock-style, that is to say, with an underlying motive. Later on John treats Sherlock to a very unusual birthday present, one which shows Johns' remarkably thorough understanding of Sherlock. This scene, even whilst reading, may have you thinking that it shouldn't work on an erotic level, but somehow the writer manages to make it work brilliantly.
Unfortunately Sherlock's recklessness is finally becoming more than even John can bear. The writer provides a very well-written and subtle amount of angst and heartbreak as the inevitable begins to unfold. There is a certain tranquillity and quietness in the final scenes of the second chapter which provides more of an impact (than perhaps rage and anger would) to a very poignant moment where both John and the reader realise that this time Sherlock has gone too far, that he may always be too much.
The third chapter sees a completely-in-character appearance from both Lestrade and Mycroft and even though they are only there briefly, everything that they do and say is pertinent to the storyline proper, to the growth of Sherlock's character and to the pace of the story.
The downside to this series is that there are many instances of non-British language/culture use, but as this is consistent throughout the series then it would seem to be a conscious choice by the writer. Often the dialogue does seem like the writer is trying too hard to make Sherlock and John sound British and as a consequence the dialogue sounds too stilted. This occurs most often when the characters are swearing, where the combinations of words are not generally used in the way the writer chooses and this sometimes leads to the dialogue not flowing as well as the narrative. Also, unfortunately there are no links between each episode (although there are links if there is more than one chapter to a particular story) so it is necessary to return to the 'Masterlist' to move on to the next story in the series.
Overall the series is very well-written with special attention paid to small details. In places the prose is beautiful and stunning, the characters are brought to life so expertly. There is much to love about the men: the workings of their minds; their interactions with one another; the humour albeit on the dark side. There are also some moments which could be considered squicky, but somehow fit with this Sherlock and John. If you like a study of the darker aspects of the relationship of Sherlock and John then this is one that should not be missed.
Slash rating:
Ratings post
Author: Wordstrings
Title: The Paradox Series
Pairing: Sherlock/John
Rating: PG 13 - NC 17
Genre: Author did not specify. Darkfic, Angst, Humour, H/C, Romance.
Word Count: 66,285 for the entire series
Author warnings/summary: 'An Act of Charity'- Sherlock POV, PG-13 for language and dark themes. In which what's in his head is never going to get any better, and John is nearly thrown out of his flat.
'The Paradox Suite'- John POV, NC-17 Being with Sherlock is a series of shocks, but John is game for it anyhow. Author did not provide a warning: Breath play.
'The Death and Resurrection of the English Language' - Sherlock POV, NC-17. Wherein the English language dies, Sherlock mourns it, and John revives a dead tongue.
'Entirely Covered in Your Invisible Name'- John POV, NC-17. Sherlock solves crimes, loses himself, comes back again, and all the while John prays that he never comes to his senses. Author did not provide a warning: Some blood swapping.
'Wider Than a Mile'- Sherlock POV, PG. Sherlock may know what it's like to be beautiful, but John knows what it's like to be good.
'New Days to Throw Your Chains Away'- Sherlock POV, NC-17. When Sherlock decides that he needs to be higher functioning, he simultaneously finds the perfect tutor.
'A Thousand Threads of What-Might-Have-Beens'- Sherlock POV, NC-17. John finally does leave, and Sherlock is entirely unsurprised by it. And he clearly has two options: either get him back, or die trying.
Slash rating:
This series has already been recommended in the fandom, but it is definitely worth recommending again. Each story can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, but there is a continuity of themes throughout which tie each story together.
'An Act of Charity' is told from Sherlock's point of view. Whatever we think about the 'high-functioning sociopath' label BBCSherlock was provided, the writer has made the decision to go with that and presents a convincing, fully-rounded Sherlock. Here the writer portrays a fascinating insight into what is going on in Sherlock's mind in a nicely balanced way, utilising his dark, rambling inner monologues, lists of 'fine' and 'not fine' and some in character dialogue with John. He comes across as arrogant, but John, the moral compass of the piece, is a match for him.
Since we cannot know what is truly going on inside BBCSherlock's head we can only surmise from his outer cues. This 'episode' of the series provides a realistic and believable interpretation of how he might sound in his head. And it's not pretty!
'The Paradox Suite' is a chance to take a breather from Sherlock's dark inner ramblings and to see their relationship from John's perspective. It is clear that the writer also has a good grasp on his characterisation. Through the use of some excellent imagery, we gain an intriguing insight into how John deals with Sherlock’s special brand of love, how he feels overwhelmed by Sherlock in every way, but, regardless of this, wants to be with him.
As a warning (not provided by the writer), this particular episode contains a scene of erotic asphyxiation. Whilst it isn't gratuitous but well-written and pertinent to the paradox, if this is not your thing, it can easily be bypassed if necessary.
In this story, the writer captures their dysfunctional relationship brilliantly and believably. It is a strange thing, yet they work so well together. The writer conveys very well the way in which Sherlock shows affection and emotion, the way only Sherlock could and is in character for BBCSherlock. When he declares his love for John it is in a convincing manner, without compromising the character of the BBC version.
There are well-timed scene breaks and an excellent use of repetition which move the reader from one paradox to another, each scene a story in itself.
'The Death and Resurrection of the English Language' sees another episode from this series told from Sherlock's point of view. Here the writer once again masters Sherlock's inner monologues delivering a believable 'sociopathic' persona, but at the same time managing to make him rather endearing, which is necessary in this verse as Sherlock's view of life is so dark and skewed and could easily become either unconvincing or make him dislikeable and unappealing.
This fic takes the reader on a journey of emotions ranging from humour to squick (some mention of blood (transfusion) and wound licking in this one-so if these aren't your kinks then you may have some 'look away now' moments) through to some wonderful angst.
John is also brilliantly written here, as with BBCJohn, even though he doesn't necessarily understand Sherlock's language, he does actually listen to what Sherlock is saying and sometimes does manage to understand him.
'Entirely Covered in Your Invisible Name', told from John's point of view, this episode sees the relationship of Sherlock and John become more disturbing, obsessive, possessive and dysfunctional, yet somehow the writer manages to make situations which could be construed as unhealthy romantic.
It is here that both Sherlock and John seem to be most out of character from the BBC version and their voices are not so clear. Sherlock's level of crazy in this episode seems to surpass that of the BBC version (and perhaps even surpasses the amount we can imagine he is capable of off screen). John, on realising Sherlock is missing becomes very needy and quite whiny. However, arguably, by this point they ought to be considered the writers' version, rather than those of the BBC incarnation, and therefore remain in character to this particular verse.
'Wider Than a Mile' returns the story to Sherlock's point of view. This part is much shorter than the others and here Sherlock's mind is quieter, the man more wistful than seen in previous parts. The writing is (continually) beautiful, the descriptions quite exquisite and the writer conveys the bitter-sweetness of the gulf between Sherlock and John with excellent balance. There is also some stunning imagery, particularly in the instance of Sherlock “becoming” his violin.
'New Days to Throw Your Chains Away' is also told from Sherlock's point of view and the first chapter contains a torture scene, but this is easily avoided if this is not your thing.
In the first chapter the writer describes some brilliantly detailed, perfectly disturbing, vivid dreams where it becomes clear that Sherlock does not have peace, even in sleep.
This episode returns to the lists from the beginning of the series and is an interesting exploration of Sherlock's morals. John finally finds out just what Sherlock considers 'fine' and 'not fine' and comes to understand just how much he means to Sherlock. In the second chapter, where John is reading through the lists, it is possible to hear every line of dialogue, the pauses and tone, as if delivered by the BBC version.
As well as a return to the lists, Sherlock's 'Act of Charity' once again is explored. As odd as that act of charity is, the writer conveys it in such a way that their love for one another appears quite beautiful and breathtaking.
In this episode the writer has, as with the other stories, managed to maintain a clever balance of dark themes, such as the torture and the horrific dreams with enough subtle humour-their making Sherlock “higher functioning” project, John's titles he uses for Sherlock-that Sherlock's sociopathy doesn't become overwhelming and all consuming.
'A Thousand Threads of What-Might-Have-Beens' is (presumably) the final episode in the story and is told from Sherlock's point of view. In this particular story the writer provides a huge dose of H/C and angst. Initially John becomes sick and Sherlock shows a rather tender, caring side albeit Sherlock-style, that is to say, with an underlying motive. Later on John treats Sherlock to a very unusual birthday present, one which shows Johns' remarkably thorough understanding of Sherlock. This scene, even whilst reading, may have you thinking that it shouldn't work on an erotic level, but somehow the writer manages to make it work brilliantly.
Unfortunately Sherlock's recklessness is finally becoming more than even John can bear. The writer provides a very well-written and subtle amount of angst and heartbreak as the inevitable begins to unfold. There is a certain tranquillity and quietness in the final scenes of the second chapter which provides more of an impact (than perhaps rage and anger would) to a very poignant moment where both John and the reader realise that this time Sherlock has gone too far, that he may always be too much.
The third chapter sees a completely-in-character appearance from both Lestrade and Mycroft and even though they are only there briefly, everything that they do and say is pertinent to the storyline proper, to the growth of Sherlock's character and to the pace of the story.
The downside to this series is that there are many instances of non-British language/culture use, but as this is consistent throughout the series then it would seem to be a conscious choice by the writer. Often the dialogue does seem like the writer is trying too hard to make Sherlock and John sound British and as a consequence the dialogue sounds too stilted. This occurs most often when the characters are swearing, where the combinations of words are not generally used in the way the writer chooses and this sometimes leads to the dialogue not flowing as well as the narrative. Also, unfortunately there are no links between each episode (although there are links if there is more than one chapter to a particular story) so it is necessary to return to the 'Masterlist' to move on to the next story in the series.
Overall the series is very well-written with special attention paid to small details. In places the prose is beautiful and stunning, the characters are brought to life so expertly. There is much to love about the men: the workings of their minds; their interactions with one another; the humour albeit on the dark side. There are also some moments which could be considered squicky, but somehow fit with this Sherlock and John. If you like a study of the darker aspects of the relationship of Sherlock and John then this is one that should not be missed.
Slash rating:
Ratings post