Still

A lecturer explores his American present and English family past while contemplating a hypothetical film in Still.

In Still, Richard Arthur Thornby, a lecturer in Texas, grapples with the complexities of identity and memory as he explores his cinematic ambitions. The narrative unfolds as Thornby contemplates a hypothetical film that intertwines his American present with the past of his middle-class English family. Through this lens, he navigates the intricacies of his personal history, revealing the struggles of reconciling two distinct cultural identities.

The story delves into the themes of nostalgia and the impact of family heritage on one's sense of self. Thornby's journey is not just a quest for artistic expression, but also a profound exploration of how the past shapes the present. As he reflects on his family's history, the reader is invited to consider the ways in which our backgrounds influence our choices and perceptions.

Still challenges the notion of what constitutes a filmable narrative, as Thornby grapples with the limitations of storytelling and the essence of human experience. This thought-provoking work encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and the stories they carry, ultimately questioning the boundaries between reality and imagination.