Publication Date

5-2021

Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)

3-15-2019

Type of Culminating Activity

Thesis

Degree Title

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Department

Theatre Arts

Major Advisor

Brady Udall, M.F.A.

Advisor

Mitch Wieland, M.F.A.

Advisor

Mary Pauline Lowry, M.F.A.

Abstract

This work represents the first significant portion of a novel in progress. It is a first-person narration following a teenage boy’s involvement with a modern-day prophet. The story examines the nature of visionary belief systems and the ways in which they can degrade a person’s connection to the everyday world. The bulk of the narrative is concerned with the protagonist’s struggle to escape the dark dream of the prophet and reconnect to the plain givenness of the world. The narrative explores the religious use of horror and glory as visionary elements, and the role of humor and affection in the everyday world. The story is told from a vantage point beyond its events and the tone and manner of telling are intended to include a significant amount of reflection. The intention of the work is not to denigrate religious beliefs but simply to dramatize the ways in which extreme beliefs generate paranoia and disdain of the everyday world. I also hope to portray the everyday world in a way that honors it.

Comments

At the behest of the Department of Theatre, Film, and Creative Writing, the document available on this record only contains the front matter of the corresponding thesis. The document in its entirety is not available for general viewing.

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