Date of Award

Spring 4-26-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

English

First Advisor

Keija Parssinen

Abstract

This micro-collection of three short stories was first conceived as an exploration of desire. What does it mean to desire when we live in a world where everything is at our fingertips? Is there still a place for it in our lives, and if so, what is that place? This line of questioning evolved, however, into an interrogation of overconsumption. Within their narratives, each of my characters navigates interpersonal relationships which have been strained by the day to day influences of contemporary American capitalism. I explore themes of love—parental, platonic, and self-directed—and isolation versus connection. My anxieties regarding overconsumption affect how I engage with those around me, even or especially those whom I love the most. My characters reflect different avenues of those anxieties—hopeful, pessimistic, and the gray territory between. This project ultimately aims to develop realistic and empathetic portrayals of contemporary Americans living with and handling the myriad consequences of overconsumption in their own lives.

Rights Statement

All rights reserved. This copy is provided to the Kenyon Community solely for individual academic use. For any other use, please contact the copyright holder for permission.

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