Publication Date

5-2025

Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)

3-14-2025

Type of Culminating Activity

Thesis

Degree Title

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Department

Theatre, Film, and Creative Writing

Supervisory Committee Chair

Anna Caritj, MFA

Supervisory Committee Member

Clyde Moneyhun, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Cynthia Hand, Ph.D.

Abstract

While the short stories in The Mermaid Game range greatly in style and form, two thematic cores run through each of them: transformation and memory. Some transformations are figurative, such as the abrupt role reversal in Old Texas Wives’ Tale. Most are more literal, as seen in the title story. Through the heady weight of memory, each story explores a metamorphosis—physical or existential, accepted or rejected—not just as external transformation but as internal reckoning.

Comments

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

Available for download on Saturday, May 01, 2027

Share

COinS