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Commentary on “Bystanders”

Matthew Snyderman

“Bystanders” was inspired by my real-life exposure to a kindergarten teacher who must have hated young children, at least those who didn’t meet her standards, whatever they were. I originally told the story (under a different title) from the perspective of Jackson, a damaged man who planned to settle the score with a sadistic teacher during her posh retirement celebration. The plot chronicled his scheme, from inception to climax, as he encountered a series of quirky characters, with several excruciating flashbacks thrown in.

An editor who reviewed this version was particularly taken by these supporting players whose paths Jackson crossed. This got me to thinking; why not tell the story through their points of view? None would have the slightest idea of what Jackson was up to, but each, in their own way, would unwittingly help him along. So they would be bystanders, but not really. Or not entirely.  

The challenge and appeal of this approach was connecting a series of very short stories with different main characters who have their own perspectives on the this strange man whom none know well or at all. Each section had to stand on its own as Jack passed from one to another as a supporting player. And, finally, I had to build tension the reader could feel that remained undetected by each bystander save the reporter.

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Matthew Snyderman lives in Northern California with his wife. When not writing, he enjoys swimming, watching old movies (preferably in a theater), and collecting music. His work has appeared in The Avalon Literary Review, The Berlin Literary Review, Dark City, Fabula Argentea, The Lowestoft Chronicle, The Opiate, and Twin Bill.

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