English Language and Literature ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-17-2025

Abstract

A Catalogue of Wildfires expands on the ideas introduced in Kurt Vonnegut’s Galápagos, particularly the effects of evolution on the human psyche. The novel takes place in America six million years in the future. Public schools have collapsed, and the people living on earth deal with environmental extremes. The protagonist, Rosalyn Finch, is a famous television personality who works with sea lions, and the novel starts when her entertainment empire collapses. Her son, whose name changes with his mood, seeks community and guidance, and he goes to great lengths to find it. Her producer, Ray, is torn between a chance at love and protecting his career.

Each character is at war with their own identity. To some extent, they are who others say they are. And to some extent, they are completely unknowable to each other. And at the center of it all is a strange group of sea lions.

Degree Name

MFA Creative Writing

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

English

First Committee Member (Chair)

Andrew Bourelle

Second Committee Member

Gregory Martin

Third Committee Member

Daniel Mueller

Fourth Committee Member

Paul Griner

Fifth Committee Member

Sarah Strickley

Language

English

Keywords

English, literature, fiction, science fiction, sci-fi

Document Type

Dissertation

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Available for download on Wednesday, May 17, 2124

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