Granta 122

Literary magazine Granta can rarely be described as an easy read, and that is maintined with 'Betrayal'. The issue opens with Janine di Giovanni's essay 'Seven Days in Syria', the first page of which features a description of a man whose fingernails have been removed during torture. It's a deeply affecting essay, and not easily forgotten.

The Betrayal theme is interpreted in many different ways throughout the issue: betrayals of the body and the mind, as well as war, partners, family and self. With the bulk of the magazine devoted to short stories and essays, it would be easy to overlook John Burnside's brief poem 'Postscript' - but it's perfectly placed to allow a moment of calm introspection among the more intense pieces. Another highlight is Karen Russell's 'The New Veterans', a story about tattooing, masculinity and war.

As always with Granta, the issue is beautifully produced, with a custom illustration for each story, an evocative series of black and white photos, and a cover image evoking a mixture of milk and blood. 'Betrayal' has a breadth and intensity of content that will satisfy even the most demanding reader.