K 'N' T and the accompanying critical analysis of creative process

Abstract

A jaded salesclerk invents the ideal companion, unaware that a well-constructed character always develops the need and means to influence his own story. Unable to envision herself outside of the tedious K ‘n’ T in rural Wagner, New Hampshire, salesclerk Brett Wilson invents her own adventure in the form of Thom—former Blue Tit road-hand, witty escaped con and imaginary friend.

Though primarily using Thom as a sounding board, Brett also amuses herself by dreaming up his gruelling yet ridiculous flight from the law. All the back-story and attention to detail move Thom from a mental diversion to a mysterious, opinion-charged reality.

Creator and creation quickly find themselves in a comic scuffle—Brett desperate to regain sanity and Thom undermining everyday life until he’s granted self-possession. In the end one of them will have to leave K ‘n’ T.