The Birthright of Sons is a collection of stories centered around the
experiences of marginalized people, namely Black and LGBTQ+ men. Though the
stories borrow elements from various genres (horror, suspense, romance, magical
realism, etc.), they?re linked by an exploration of identity and the ways
personhood is shaped through interactions with the people, places, and belief
systems around us.
Underpinning the project is a core
belief ? self-definition is fluid, but conflict arises because society often
fails to keep pace with personal evolution. In each of these stories, the
protagonists grapple with their understanding of who they are, who and how they
love, and what?s ultimately most important to them. In almost every case,
however, the quest to know or protect oneself is challenged by an external
force, resulting in violence, crisis, or confusion, among other outcomes.
The Birthright of Sons colors in ?the other? as three-dimensional, by
highlighting the unique obstacles that marginalized people face while
simultaneously centering their humanity and unearthing universal struggles and
commonalities. Be it experiencing a sexual awakening, contemplating the
cumulative effects of racial tension in the workplace, or searching desperately
for a moment of peace in the attention economy, the collection amplifies
underrepresented voices in a playful and contemporary way, elevating,
critiquing, and confronting its characters.
Through a mix of
heart, dark humor, and social observation, The
Birthright of Sons ponders the power of difference in a world defined by
rigid definitions, ideological silos, and an unwillingness to change
