Charcoal
by Maria McKee
Genre: Short story
Written by Maria McKee and narrated by Patrice Gambardella
This audio story Copyright ©2019 by Maria McKee
These are strange times for Elizabeth. Plagued by a blocking beam in her mind she finds herself increasingly robbed of the power of speech - or else seized by the paroxysm of song. More worryingly, Elizabeth doesn't know what's triggered it. Certainly events took a turn for the bizarre after her encounter with the enchanting woman with moon white hair who spoke of a mystical experience with Johnny Cash's pants. Still, one channel of communication closes, another opens and Elizabeth finds herself compelled to convey her feelings - or something - through the medium of art. Before she knows it everything, her walls and ceiling included, are covered in elaborate charcoal drawings. What is going on in Elizabeth's brain and where will it end?
An intriguing, quirky and touching story that explores the issues of the senses and the often enigmatic power of expression.
about the author
Maria McKee is an American singer-songwriter. She is best known for her work with the band Lone Justice, her 1990 UK solo chart-topping hit, "Show Me Heaven", and her song "If Love Is a Red Dress (Hang Me in Rags)" from the film Pulp Fiction. Maria McKee is the half-sister of Bryan MacLean, who was best known as a guitarist and vocalist in the band Love.
about the narrator
Patrice has an eclectic background that's as engaging as her narration style. As well as stage productions, corporate videos and art house films, Patrice has performed as a magician's assistant and worked as a flight attendant. 'I particularly enjoyed making announcements over the PA system,' she says. Well, naturally!
Patrice's vocal training takes in the prestigious Edge Studio, The Lee Strasberg Acting Workshop and The Catholic University of America. Read more and listen to her demos at patricevoice.com
listener reviews
Compelling listen by Pfid on 15 February 2020
Charcoal was a very strange and quite disturbing listen. But it was also most intriguing and I was compelled to listen until the poignant end. I began to listen because I'm a fan of Johnny Cash and I wanted to hear how he came into the tale. But that curiosity was forgotten quite quickly once I thought that Elizabeth was having a stroke and my sympathies were with her!
Rating: 8/10