Defense Date
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts
Department
English
First Advisor
Jessica Nelson
Second Advisor
Gregory Donovan
Third Advisor
Dr. Matteo Pangallo
Abstract
This collection of related essays explores how craft can amplify the content of a story, making it more universal. The collections centers on the unexpected death of Andrew twenty-four days after a deck collapsed left him paralyzed from the shoulders down. The variety of forms reframe Andrew’s story while revealing the conflicting psychological and emotional toll of grief. These essays grapple with the complexities of broken families, sexual assault, the lingering effects of religious abuse, and the transformative nature of chosen forgiveness, to demonstrate how craft choices can hold and universalize experience.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
4-26-2026