Stranger Danger
A story about my childhood subway commute (and learning not to smile)
On February 28, 1979, I got dressed for another day of sixth grade in my newest blue jeans, a knit sweater, and a red satin coat Mom and I had found at Second Act used clothing. I loved that shiny red coat with the wide buckle, but I never wore any of those things again. - From “Stranger Danger”
CALYX Press has posted an audio recording of me reading “Stranger Danger” to their website. The story is adapted from my manuscript, Two Houses, A Memoir of Art and Divorce (that I have yet to publish). Stream “Stranger Danger” (free).
It’s an honor to be included among so many important and accomplished voices. CALYX is one of the oldest feminist journals of art and literature by women in the country; next year, the journal celebrates its 50th anniversary.
A few who were published first or early in their careers include Julia Alvarez, Ellen Bass, Chitra Divakaruni, Molly Gloss, Linda Hogan, Natalie Goldberg, Barbara Kingsolver, Colleen McElroy, Sharon Olds, Nobel Laureate Wislawa Szymborska (the first English translations in the U.S.A.), and Eleanor Wilner, among others. CALYX Journal was also the first U.S. publisher of color art reproductions of the work of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. - From the CALYX website
Needless to say, I’m thrilled to have my story in the current edition. To support their work, you can buy it here.
And thank you for your patience as Kim and I prepare to move to Portugal, a months-long process. Various essays are underway. I’m also rediscovering work by my mother as I sort and sift what I gleaned from her loft.
Here’s another 70s SoHo view with a water tower that I found among her works on paper. Enjoy, though it’s a hasty iPhone snap I grabbed before packing it away.
I love hearing from you.
Eliza, your Stranger Danger essay in CALYX Journal was so powerful. Thank you for your bravery in sharing your story.
Wow, Eliza. Incredible and devastating portrait of the city, of your mother and, most importantly, you. A brave and generous pice of writing. Thank you.