Linen: a metaphor of codependency

by Lea Frances

Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable{"Table Normal";""; 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;"Times New Roman";#0400;} Linen is a fairy tale including theafter following the ¿happily ever after¿ line. It is the story of a foundlinggirl. Following a life of torment and little joy, she is rescued by the man of herdreams. For a period of time she isblissfully asleep, conscious in an alternate reality where she experiences loveand sorrow to an unmitigated degree. Upon awakening, she becomes intimatelyacquainted with both desperation and denial. Although unable to resolve all troubles, she chooses to live life completely. The novella's title, Linen, represents the fabric of onelife, all threads intimately woven into a perfect work. Linen literally windsthrough the story serving the functions of comfort, cleanliness and concealmentfor that which must not be seen. The word, linen, represents one complete life andone life is completed with linen. The story is a metaphor ofcodependency. The primary character learns early that her survival is dependentupon the approval of her benefactor. She clings to this illusion as proof ofher own worth. The metaphor parallels the lives of women who are unaware oftheir personal greatness and live yearning for the approval of others. Some live filled with sorrow, unableto resolve their pain. Some are fortunate in their unconsciousness, ultimatelyfinding happiness in a prescription bottle. A blessed few confront unbearableemotional pain, rip bandages from tender flesh and allow their wounds to heal. It is my hope that you, dear reader,are one of the few.

248 pages, Paperback

First published February 26, 2009