As a Mere Breath: Short Stories by Markus McDowell is a compelling and thought-provoking collection that delves into the intricate tapestry of human experience, resilience, and redemption. Nine evocative tales offer a unique lens on life's challenges and triumphs. Drawing inspiration from Psalm 39:5, which reflects on the fleeting nature of existence, the book opens with the haunting "Fishhooks," a metaphorical exploration of being ensnared by life's burdens, followed by stories like
- "You Made Your Bed...," a poignant look at neglect and self-discovery,
- "Train Wreck," a meditative journey through order and chaos.
Other standout pieces include "Motivation Null," a programmer's struggle with burnout, "Schadenfreude," a café scene of unintended humor, and "Guillotine," a historical narrative of fear and fate. The collection culminates with "Battle-Weary," a powerful Arthurian tale of leadership and moral dilemmas amid war.
Markus McDowell is an author and editor of fiction and nonfiction in multiple genres. He is the author of Nuff Sed: A Novel of Desert Steve, To and Fro Upon the Earth: A Novel, Mortals As They Walk, Onesimus: A Novel of Christianity in the Roman Empire, and two short story collections, The Sky Over Chaos and So Deep in Shadow, as well as several nonfiction books in law, theology, and literature in the ancient world. He lives in California on a boat and travels extensively.
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