Companion Piece

Exploring themes of loneliness, connection, and the complexities of human experience, the narrative unfolds through a woman's unexpected call from a former classmate seeking help with a puzzling incident. This leads to an intertwining of contemporary life with the historical struggles of a young blacksmith from nearly 500 years ago, drawing parallels to the isolation of the Black Plague era. Award-winning author Ali Smith crafts a thought-provoking tale that encourages readers to reflect on vulnerability and the significance of storytelling in understanding our present and future.