| Title |
Tallman, Molly Ann MENG_2025 |
| Alternative Title |
Writing Toward Authenticity in Character, Disability, Setting, and Genre |
| Creator |
Tallman, Molly |
| Contributors |
Griffiths, Sian (advisor) |
| Collection Name |
Master of English |
| Abstract |
This thesis examines the creation and development of a novel centered on Clara, an epileptic sniper working for a covert organization known as The Syndicate. Blending elements of spy fiction, psychological drama, and character-driven storytelling, the project explores how disability and identity shape a protagonist who moves through the world both as a weapon and as a woman reclaiming agency. The narrative follows Clara as she completes a mission in London-where an unexpected connection with a man named Liam complicates her emotional detachment-and as she navigates a subsequent assignment in Stockholm that exposes deeper layers and interests within The Syndicate itself. Clara's lifelong epilepsy, the result of a childhood brain hemorrhage and multiple surgeries, becomes not only a physical challenge but also an integral part of her interiority. Her ability to enter a practiced, emotionless state during missions links to the aftermath of an experimental surgery at age fifteen, adding psychological complexity to her role as an assassin.; ; As Clara uncovers evidence possibly tying Liam to her father's mysterious death, the novel interrogates themes of trust, manipulation, inherited loyalty, and the blurred lines between protector and threat. This thesis also reflects on the craft choices behind characterization, pacing, and authenticity, including how spy-film influences informed the creation of morally ambiguous dynamics. Ultimately, the novel aims to present a nuanced depiction of a disabled heroine whose vulnerability and lethality coexist, challenging traditional genre expectations while foregrounding the emotional reality of living-and surviving-with epilepsy in a world built on secrecy and violence. |
| Subject |
Creative writing; Characters and characteristics in literature; Fiction |
| Digital Publisher |
Digitized by Special Collections & University Archives, Stewart Library, Weber State University. |
| Date |
2025-12 |
| Medium |
theses |
| Type |
Text |
| Access Extent |
48 page pdf |
| Conversion Specifications |
Adobe Acrobat |
| Language |
eng |
| Rights |
The author has granted Weber State University Archives a limited, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to reproduce his or her thesis, in whole or in part, in electronic or paper form and to make it available to the general public at no charge. The author |
| Source |
University Archives Electronic Records: Master of English. Stewart Library, Weber State University |
| Format |
application/pdf |
| ARK |
ark:/87278/s66hrfce |
| Setname |
wsu_smt |
| ID |
156009 |
| Reference URL |
https://digital.weber.edu/ark:/87278/s66hrfce |
