Promise

"When we issued our call for submissions for this issue, we were looking for work 'that merges place, history, and culture.' What we had in mind was something like M.D. Coverly’s exemplary work. Though we are astounded by the varied ways in which all our writers touch on our stated themes, Michael J. Maguire’s 'Promise' is closest to our original hopes.

Structured in four acts, Maguire offers a deeply personal—and deeply moving—narrative reflecting Ireland, its culture, and its myths.

Interestingly, Maguire (like Angela Ferraiola) is also a playwright. His interest in plays is amply demonstrated in this piece, most explicitly so within the context of his 'Ham Let Loose' play-within-a-play.

While the skills necessary for playwriting and new media writing may not appear to overlap, Maguire admits that the playwright’s focus on 'structural awareness, characterization through dialogue, self belief, and knowledge of craft are the essential skills that enabled me to create "Promise."' " -- From The New River Journal