Publication Date

Spring 2014

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

English and Comparative Literature

Advisor

Nicholas Taylor

Subject Areas

Literature

Abstract

Watch the Sky is a coming of age novel that follows a young man named Eddie Leland. Sixteen-year-old Eddie lives in an isolated part of Southern Oregon. His father is dead and his mother, torn with grief, is unable to contribute to Eddie's development into manhood. For two years, Eddie has had one true companion, his father's hunting dog. When the dog is violently killed by his mother's boyfriend and his mother's life is threatened, Eddie takes drastic measures to preserve what is left of his family. As a result, Eddie must flee the only life he has ever known.

Eddie takes to the road with his older brother Ben, who is determined to make something of himself no matter the risks. Early in their escape, Eddie and Ben meet Terry, a misguided young woman who lives as close to the edge as they do. Together they travel the Northwest Coast seeking redemption and doing everything they can to survive the cruel, dark world they have entered.

The enormousness of the life beyond his home and the eccentric characters Eddie encounters brings him face to face with his naiveté, his place in society, and a new understanding of his father's life and death. Eventually, Eddie must return home and face potential consequences, but first he needs to form a deep and honest connection with himself, his family, and the reality of his place in the world.

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