Alison Armstrong crafts literary horror that delves into inner terror, lurking dread, and flashes of nightmarish epiphany. Her work explores stealthy fears and solipsistic anxieties, often focusing on the dark side of female consciousness through archetypal exploration. Armstrong's writing is characterized by its psychological depth and its examination of the hidden corners of the mind.
Leaving Mum to put up the beach tent, Luna wanders off to explore the beach with the sea shimmering in the distance. Like a bolt from the blue, Luna soon discovers that she is well and truly lost! Instantly, the magic of a day at the beach turns into a bad dream. Can Luna pull out all the stops to find Mum?
The story follows Alley, a young punk musician who, from childhood, has been visited by otherworldly beings, leading to a life-changing transformation into an immortal vampire. As she reflects on her terrifying encounters and dark obsessions, the narrative delves into the events that triggered her Awakening and the moral complexities of preying on humans. This prequel expands on her haunting journey, exploring the intersections of music, identity, and the supernatural.
A working class coming-of-age story of one girl's attempt to claim an identity for herself beyond that ascribed by her chaotic home life that expertly captures the shaky existence of all who are lost.
Rooted in the lessons from both wild and tame creatures, these stories explore the timeless laws of the Natural world. They highlight the innate sense of justice and truth found within these animals, offering imaginative narratives that reflect on the deeper connections between humanity and nature.
Re-Views & Inter-Views on Literature, Architecture, & Art
Alison Armstrong's extensive engagement with Anglo-Irish literature has led to notable works, including a literary cookbook and a scholarly volume on W.B. Yeats. Her diverse writing spans essays, stories, poetry, and reviews published in various prestigious journals. Recent publications with Xlibris showcase her versatility, featuring monologues, memoirs, essays on literature and art, and fables. Additionally, she imparts her knowledge as a teacher in the Humanities Department at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan.
Exploring the interplay between literary and visual art, these essays emphasize experiencing and understanding the function of artworks rather than delving into the artist's intentions. Through interviews with notable figures like William Anastasi and Robert Kipniss, the focus remains on the "how" of art, inviting readers to engage with the work itself and uncover deeper insights. This approach encourages a richer appreciation of art's virtual realities, steering clear of the limitations posed by questioning artistic motives.
Phantasms and the Dark Side of Female Consciousness
Exploring the psychological connection between women and mythical creatures, this collection features essays and short stories that delve into the allure of vampires, shape-shifters, and other monsters. It analyzes how these archetypal figures reflect fears, desires, and aspirations, inviting readers to consider their impact on identity and culture. Through a blend of literary and cinematic analysis, the book reveals the complexities of women's relationships with these imaginative beings.
Exploring the art of storytelling, this book delves into narrative techniques that enhance writing. It covers essential elements such as character development, plot structure, and thematic depth, providing practical advice for both aspiring and seasoned writers. Through examples and exercises, readers learn to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. Emphasizing the importance of voice and style, it serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to refine their narrative skills and engage readers effectively.
The book features a diverse range of narrating voices, including five male characters with distinct accents, such as an East Coast American professor and a British figure with Irish influence. Four female monologues present unique perspectives, from an aggressive elderly woman to a naive Midwestern girl sharing a childhood trauma. Additionally, a subdued young woman reflects on family relationships, while a lonely, hysterical princess from Bronze Age Greece evokes the tragic themes of Sophocles' Antigone. Each voice invites vivid imagination and deep emotional resonance.
The narrative immerses readers in a visceral experience as the protagonist undergoes a transformation, marked by a powerful connection to a motionless tabby kitten. The vivid imagery of electrifying sensations and the act of drawing blood creates an intense atmosphere, exploring themes of primal instincts and the struggle between humanity and feral urges. The protagonist's actions suggest a deeper, possibly supernatural, bond with the creature, hinting at a complex relationship that intertwines life, death, and the essence of existence.