Fantasy, dystopian literature, and the real world: When metaphors are not enough
In a conversation on social media recently, readers were discussing fantasy and dystopian books they didn’t like because they hit too close to home. I understand that readers—including me!—enjoy mythic heroism, clear distinctions between good and evil, sword fights and dragons and epic battles, and a story where the good guys ultimately win decisively. And as an avid reader, I don’t want anyone telling me what to read and what not to read, so this is not a critique of reading choices. It’s a legitimate question about why some readers won’t touch real-world dystopian stories.
The power of music for protest and change
Growing up, my church-going, United Methodist parents listened to what I'd call Americana music, churchy hymns and gospel, and some country music. My maternal grandmother played piano by ear and played in Grandpa’s churches where he preached. My mom was a natural alto who could harmonize with any tune, and my dad had a fine voice and for a while sang in a barber shop quartet. When they were young, they both had music in their homes—my mom played the flute and piccolo and my dad played the trumpet and coronet. My brother still has my dad’s coronet.
HALLUCINATION IN D MINOR
A “single-serving” short story by Jason Makansi