Synopsis
8-Track Boy features an alienated, introspective protagonist grappling with adolescence, identity, and loss. Ryan Woods is critical of societal norms and searches for authenticity in a world he perceives as phony. The story tackles complex themes of identity, sexuality, and loss in a thought-provoking and nuanced way.
Setting
The primary setting is Oak Wood Academy, a prestigious boarding school in rural Tennessee during the late 1970s. The story captures the atmosphere of a changing era, with references to popular music, cultural events, and political upheaval. The school's strict rules and religious emphasis contrast with the students' rebellious behavior and exploration of identity, creating a dynamic and often chaotic environment.
Themes & Motifs
Ryan's mother repeatedly abandons him emotionally and physically, leaving him feeling unwanted and insecure. His relationships are marked by betrayal and shifting loyalties, forcing him to confront the fragility of trust and the complexities of human connection.
Ryan struggles with understanding his sexuality and navigating the complexities of desire amidst a backdrop of societal expectations and religious dogma. His sexual encounters are explorations of self-discovery and the fluidity of desire, challenging conventional notions of identity.
Potential Readers
This story would appeal to readers aged 18 and older, particularly those interested in coming-of-age stories, boarding school dramas, and LGBTQ+ themes. Both male and female readers, especially those with a college education or higher, would connect with Ryan's intellectual curiosity and existential questions. Readers who enjoy character-driven narratives and introspective explorations of identity, sexuality, and loss would appreciate the story's depth and complexity. The nostalgic setting of the late 1970s, with its cultural references and music, would resonate with readers who lived through that era or are interested in its cultural significance. The story's themes of abandonment, betrayal, and self-discovery would appeal to readers who have experienced similar challenges or are interested in exploring these universal themes. While income level and occupation are less relevant, readers interested in literature, psychology, and sociology would appreciate the story's nuanced characters and exploration of human behavior.
Trilogy
8-Track Boy is the first book in a planned trilogy centered on Ryan Woods. The second book is set in Los Angeles during the mid to late 1980s, and the third is during the turn of the decade and Ryan’s time in the military.
Specific Themes
The following themes are included in the overall story and character arch.
Infinity and time
Death
Suicide
Divorce
Homophobia
Zionism
Sexual abuse
Slavery
Racism
Rape
Expectations
Failure
Need to fit in
Success
Mental illness
Mortality
Fantasy vs reality
God
Illusion vs reality
Lunacy
Grief
Guilt
First love
Drugs
Sex
Privilege & material wealth
Psychological abuse
Religion
Music
Parallel universes, time travel
Coming of age
Deception
