If Victor Lana was searching only for a coping mechanism after 9/11, he could have gone into therapy, spent his days in a bar, or become a hermit. Maybe he did a little of all of those. But Lana is a writer and he sought his way through the turmoil to craft an amazing collection of stories now collected in The Savage Quiet September Sun. This book not only represents a personal catharsis, but also serves as a wonderful honor to all those that perished, and all those that remain.
The stories are all different and touch on diverse subjects; murder, prejudice, young love, deceit, starting over – yet the common theme is some sort of severe loss due to the New York disaster.
“A Love Meant for Another Time” is an account of a young couple, high school sweethearts, Ozan – an Algerian Arab and Sylvia – a Russian Jew, who survived the extreme prejudice of their own families to go on and marry and start their own happy family. Told from the point of view of Greg, Oz’s best friend, the story is a bit heartbreaking even before September 2001. We see the two marry with virtually no other family members willing to attend, and after their two children are born things do not get any better. But Oz and Sylvia’s devotion is powerful- the love enduing well after Sylvia died in the terrorist attack as Oz states so eloquently in an email to Greg:
“Sometimes I think that our love was not meant for this time, but then I realize that this is wrong. Our love was meant for all time: an eternal flickering flame that would have ignited in any century across all continents on this earth…Perhaps love is the hope for this world; I think it’s the salvation in the next one to be sure.”
Love is also the central premise of “Some Kind of Happiness,” which takes place at Jen and John’s wedding reception. Jen had previously been engaged to Ralph, a chef at the World Trade Center. After 9/11, she started going to a survivors' support group and soon met John and his sister Carla. They had lost their younger sister in the attacks and were seeking the same sort of guidance and help as Jen. Eventually, John and Jen dated, and became engaged. Now, even after the vows were taken, Jen struggles with doubt, not sure if she can go through with the marriage.
Article comments
1 - Victor Lana
I am seldom at a loss for words, Mary Kay, but I am at this moment (given what day today is). All I can say is a heartfelt "thank you."
2 - DJRadiohead
Well done, Sir Mary. Another of your fine efforts.
3 - Mary K. Williams
Thanks Victor, never an easy topic, yet it's driven so many of us to create. Thankyou too, for your creations.
And thanks Sir DJ. I appreciate all your help, always.
4 - Natalie Bennett
This article has been selected for syndication to Advance.net, which is affiliated with newspapers around the United States. Nice work!