This is my first foray into sci-fi territory! I hope you check it out. You can read or listen on the Metaphorosis website. I had so much fun recording my narration!

Read or listen here: Visions for the Independent City of New York by Cidney Mayes

Summary:

In a futuristic New York, a young girl gains attention for her unique drawings. When she is offered a better life and the chance to study art, she hones her own artistic vision – which may have dangerous consequences.

Inspiration

This story draws significant inspiration from the housing crisis unfolding in my hometown of Portland, Maine. The increasing prevalence of homeless encampments in the city has left a lasting impression on me. The makeshift settlements simply shift from one location to another after periodic interventions by the authorities. In contrast, more and more real estate is being built to attract wealthy buyers to sparkling waterfront properties. In a city of only 68,000, this disparity is shocking. Expanding this polarity of socio-economic status into a giant city, set in the future, provided the foundation for this story.