Hair autobiography

Author Identifier (ORCID)

Donna J Mazza: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1135-5187

Abstract

This work is an autobiography covering forty years in 500 words using an experimental structure and focusing on hair as an outward symbol of youth and self-esteem. It is a feminist piece which considers hair as an emblem that responds to different stages of life, both in its own shifts and behaviour and our treatment of it. The author set a challenge to her practice by attempting to depict 40 years of life in 500 words, and thereby stretch the limits of compression within the form by using a list-story structure.

Non-Traditional Research Output

Original Creative Work

Document Type

Non-Traditional Research Output

Date of Publication

2024

Research Statement

The challenge of compression in writing is particularly difficult for a writer and a test of skill in structure and design. This work makes use of the ‘list story’ structure, which uses a list as a guiding form for fiction. This experimental form is used in various ways by innovative writers such as Ryan O’Neill and Nuala O’Connor. Flash fiction is gaining popularity as a highly skilled form that can communicate complex truths. This work challenges the scope of this form by aiming to represent 40 years of autobiography within its limitations.

Publication Title

Three Can Keep a Secret

Publisher

Night Parrot Press

School

School of Arts and Humanities

RAS ID

72372

Duration

500 words

ISBN

9780648706359

Comments

Mazza, D. (2024). Hair autobiography. In Three Can Keep a Secret Flash Fiction by Western Australian Writers(pp. 151-192). Night Parrot Press. https://www.nightparrotpress.com/product/three-can-keep-a-secret-flash-fiction-by-western-australian-writers-pre-order-now/

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