These eclectic short works of fiction should be read as lyric essays of the human condition-comparable in intensity and emotion to lyric poetry-created out of the human spirit and brought to life by the experiences and imagination of the writer. Each story is a vignette of the human heart in conflict with itself as it struggles to resolve those human dilemmas that confront, confound and confuse us in making the choices that determine how we live our lives. The more troubling and controversial the questions, the more relevant and compelling-and important-the story. These are emotionally charged stories about things that matter-love and honor and pity and pride and compassion-that speak truth to life's mysteries and perplexities, the only kind of stories worth writing or reading. Includes Readers Guide.