The Illusion of Action
Editor's Note for Issue 7
The interpretation of what it means to act – or not act – or pretend to be acting (what is acting, if not pretending?) depends on both the author and the reader.
In Issue # 7 of The Apostrophe, the five pieces examine the difference between words and action, and the identities from whence they both arise.
The very concept of identity underlies the main drivers of action in “Act Like a Clone”, as well as self-concept in “The Reminder”. But “Two Memories of St. Michael’s”, highlights the stark contrast between speech and deeds.
Meanwhile, in “Walk Away” the characters remain almost motionless as the scene plays out; the actions they have done, or wished they had taken, are implied or remembered. The story also asks the reader to consider the meaning of love in the face of violence. And in the novel excerpt “We’ll See the Animals One Day”, the absence and presence of love is demonstrated through actions but revealed in words.
By ruminating on this contrast, readers may find another paradox: that choosing to read and understand is fundamental to the most deliberate acts of our lives.
Issue 7 of The Apostrophe will be published starting on December 1, 2024 - one piece per day, with the full PDF version published on the final day.