Here's a recommendation from our friends over at the Translated SF Wiki (you should check them out if you have an interest in non-UK/US SF!)
Anton Stark's short story Silkstrand, A Minute Of is a fascinating little fragment, set in Chinese-style high culture, and following one of the characters responsible for maintaining the universal clock that keeps the Empire ticking, and time flowing correctly. But who, by chance, finds out that - no, I'm not telling. Go read it, it's short, it's clever, and it's charming.
The story was published, both as text and as a Podcast on Cast of Wonders - links below.
The picture on the right is a wooden Triangle Mandala - it felt somewhat appropriate given the subject matter!
Links: Silkstrand, A Minute Of - Cast of Wonders - Anton Stark - Translated SF
