‘Miscellany’ Archives
Introducing Jake Ryan!
Jake Ryan’s illustrations will be gracing the pages of the alley for a little while, adding pen and ink flare to some of our articles. He kindly drew our namesake as an introduction. Can you spot which article he illustrated this month? Jake is a South Minneapolis born illustrator, copywriter, whiskey distilling DJ, who loves the outdoors and art in all its forms. He generally spends his time lurking around cafes, going to shows, and running.
One Story, Two Endings
By SHELIA BLAND FIRST ENDINGRain plays rhythms on my coat and hood as I make my way to the inevitable meetup. I use these beats to block out any thoughts of the approaching confrontation. Puddles jump up in surprise and protest as I rudely slam the weight of my feet down in the midst of their watery realities. I hurry, unfazed by these reactive pushbacks.The target location is just in sight. I steel myself lunging forward. The fight is on. I arrive. Though the place is lit outside, inside seems dark. This is the assigned location. Ground zero. It should be open for business.If necessary, we have this showdown in the street. There is no going back.I push the door. It opens. I move in. In the darkness I see bodies seated around the room.I’ll wait here…Mid-thought, my opponent is upon me.“Let’s do this.”“Yes, lets.”Suddenly, there’s light and…“SURPRISE!!!”“What…”Laughter and glee ring out. I am surrounded.“You are so easy to play. I knew the best way to [...]
