Usher

After the death of T. Nelson Downs, his son embarks on a journey around the globe. As he travels away from Australia, he discovers deeper connections to his father's memory. Usher was shortlisted for the New South Wales Literary Award for fiction.

In Usher, the narrative unfolds with the death of T. Nelson Downs, prompting his son to embark on a journey far from Australia in search of solace. This quest takes him across various landscapes and cultures, as he attempts to escape the weight of his father's legacy. However, as he travels further from his physical presence, he paradoxically finds himself drawing closer to his father's memory. The journey becomes not just a geographical exploration but an emotional odyssey, where the son grapples with his identity and the impact of his father's life on his own.

As the protagonist traverses different parts of the world, he encounters a diverse array of characters and experiences that challenge his perceptions and beliefs. Each interaction serves as a reflection of his internal struggle, revealing layers of his relationship with his father and the unresolved feelings that linger in the wake of loss. Through these encounters, the son begins to piece together the complexities of his father's life, gaining insights that he had previously overlooked. This exploration leads him to confront not only his grief but also the legacy that his father has left behind.

The Motorcycle Cafe, which was shortlisted for the New South Wales Literary Award for fiction, masterfully weaves themes of memory, loss, and the search for connection. The story highlights how the past can shape our present, even when we feel the need to distance ourselves from it. Ultimately, the journey becomes a profound exploration of love, remembrance, and the enduring bond between parent and child, illustrating that sometimes, the path to understanding lies in revisiting the memories we seek to escape.