Abstract

This body of work is linked thematically rather than stylistically. I have used three kinds of short fiction to depict states of withdrawal and avoidance. Postcard or 'sudden fiction' employs a narrative short-hand and focuses on tone, voice and situation, often at the expense of plot and characterization, though not excluding either; the short tale or yarn, which is often an extended anecdote that is driven more by idea, situation and mood (the fantastical, the surreal) then by individual psychology or causality; and conventional realistic fiction, which explores character through that complex of social interrelations we have become accustomed to calling plot. Some methods used to avoid facing loss are alcohol, religion, emotional and sexual affairs, cigarettes, cars, travel and even hobbies. Most of my characters perform tasks whose actions mimic participation, but whose true purpose is to shield them from emotions that are too painful to risk exploration