For Woody

A Story

by Stuart Dybek
Log in or register to post comments

What a gem. Thanks.

Lovely, but I miss a form for even so short a piece as this. I confess it isn't purely a "slice of life," but it's so close that I feel a little deprived -- which is actually a compliment.

Stuart, you just keep on doing it. And what you do is very good for me.

Ouch. So very, very true.

For Woody -- Ah, the name hints at a prequel, a sequel, or just leaves one wanting more. That's what happens with your work. Thanks.

In its form, this story reminds me of Dybek's poem "Bottle Caps." I love dybek's writing, and have for years. He inspired me through undergraduate and MFA creative writing programs, and I still follow him. I love those moments of insight, clarity.

In my mind, there's no one who rivals Dybek in writing about the elusive moments of childhood--as portrayed in this small wonder.

Some of the most powerful stories I've ever read are by Stuart Dybek. Just from Coast of Chicago I'm thinking "Chopin in Winter" and "Farwell" and the best of the best and the last story in the collection, "Pet Milk". Proves that a single story can have great impact. Kudos to Narrative for re-running this Dybek.