Roughhouse

In Roughhouse, a troubled youth recounts a surreal childhood marked by violence and trauma, exploring the complexities of family dynamics and personal identity.

In Roughhouse, Thaddeus Rutkowski presents a stark and unflinching portrayal of a troubled childhood that intertwines with the complexities of adult life. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a young boy navigating a surreal, semi-rural existence marked by tedium, casual violence, and deviant sexual encounters. This harrowing account paints a vivid picture of an American family on the edge, featuring a volatile father, a mother who communicates in fragmented Chinese proverbs, and siblings who have become almost silent due to the overwhelming bleakness of their environment.

The protagonist's response to the chaos around him is both disturbing and revealing, as he engages in increasingly aberrant behaviors, such as sexual bondage and a peculiar form of pyromania. Rutkowski's prose is spare yet powerful, capturing the absurdity of emotional displacement with precision. The author deftly explores the themes of trauma and confusion, while also critiquing the societal structures that allow such dysfunction to persist.

Thaddeus Rutkowski, a writer with roots in central Pennsylvania and now residing in New York, brings his experiences to life through his compelling storytelling. His work has graced numerous esteemed publications, and he has earned accolades such as the Nuyorican Poets Café’s Poetry Slam. Roughhouse is a striking examination of family breakdown and the scars it leaves, showcasing a voice that demands attention.