Smoke and Mirrors question

You're going to have to explain this a little bit further. Why do you think this story in particular has to do with Gaiman's experience in Hollywood? The question wasn't quite clear.

Also, why were you disappointed by this book?

If I understand you correctly, then the reason these fish are so important is because they hint back to a world long since past. These fish are "immortal" and white (colorless like the old silent films) and yet the one forever bears the mark of June Lincoln's kiss, as a token of the past era of film.

The whole thing was supposed to be a tribute to the silent films. The classic films. Even though these old actors and actresses are forgotten by modern audiences, they will live on.

I didn't fully appreciate it the first time I read this story. Taking a year or so off, and picking it up again, I found that I really enjoyed and understood it.

Luffy wrote: "I've just been disappointed by the author Neil Gaiman and this book of his. He may not be for me, but just to make sure I want to know who in the short story "Goldfish pool" are the 3 fish(and the ..."

You might prefer one of his novels then - when I first read Smoke and Mirrors I wasn't that impressed with a lot of the tales in it (apart from the Snow White style one). Perhaps try reading American Gods and see what you think of his writing style after that? As much as I like Smoke and Mirrors I do not think it is the best of his peices of work.

I have been a big fan of Gaiman ever since I picked up Neverwhere many, many years ago. I agree that his novels are much better than the short stories. American Gods and Neverwhere stick in my mind as the best. Also you may check out the Sandman comic series. I think Sandman is where he originally got the master storyteller label anyway.