As I was cleaning, I reached up to put something on the top shelf of the closet when a number of journals tumbled down upon me. Then, this poster floated down on top of all of them.

West End was my first published novella. This was a promotional poster from my book signings. I didn’t realize I still had one.

I have to admit, I am still sincerely proud of West End. I’d worked so hard and so long on it. Some of the lines and images stick with me.

The story takes place on the West Side of Cleveland – although I think it’s only ever referred to as the West End. I grew up in Cleveland, Collinwood, East Side, North, West Side, and some things left an impression.

While West End is a story about an unnamed narrator, the setting is nearly a character in itself. There’s so much imagery and a strong sense of place.

I remember working and reworking sentences, the images, sitting for hours and days and weeks making certain the rhythm and language was beautiful.

I framed this poster and it hangs on my wall now.

West End is actually – as I check the link – is on sale at Amazon right now!