Apostasy
This fictional short story, published in 2025, analyzes the question of manhood through the eyes of a teenage boy who has just learned that his father is not the person he used to know.
Written in 2024, Published in the Ivy Leaves Journal 2025 Volume. Recipient of the Lawrence and Pansy Webb Excellence in Writing Award, Fiction, Second Place.
Authorial Growth
(Spoilers Ahead)
1
Character Knowledge
My main struggle while writing "Apostasy" was trying to balance what I know as an author with what the reader can find for themselves. Theo's romantic connection to Lee was initially much more subtle, but it was so subtle it left early readers in the dark and didn't work well with how much access readers initially have to Theo's thought processes.
2
Style vs. Clarity
To separate my written work and style from other authors, I try to phrase things uniquely. These phrasings can come across as awkward or improper to some readers, leading me to investigate the difference between my personal style and what could potentially pull the reader out of the piece.
3
Ending Placement
The piece initially ended much sooner, and the final scene with Theo, Red, and Lee by the car was not included. I originally opted for a vague ending, concluding the story at Theo with his hands on the hood of the car. The addition of the final scene helps to solidify the theme of innate darkness and the terrible ties Theo feels to his father.
Writing Spot Highlight
Mountain Vibes Kava Lounge
122 Miller Street, Waynesville, NC
Nestled in an isolated street of Waynesville, North Carolina, Mountain Vibes Kava Lounge serves as an escape from both downtown Waynesville and the more hectic cities around North Carolina. From my first visit, they made me feel like family, wanting to learn about me and engage with me. A calm, lighthearted spot to sit and write, participate in Saturday night open mic, or kick back with a kava margarita, Mountain Vibes is one of the coziest spots in the Carolinas I've discovered yet. Check out their Instagram at the link below:
