Notes on an Execution

by Danya Kukafka

There is no such thing as good or evil. Instead, we have memory and choice, and we all live at various points on the spectrum between. We are created by what has happened to us, combined with who we choose to be. Anyway, I wanted to thank you. All of you, for allowing me into your home. Jenny, for everything. If I’m simply a series of choices, I’m glad they led me here.”

Why all the writing? Shawna asked you this once, near the beginning. You were sitting on the floor with your notebooks spread around, your hands stained black with ink. It’s the only way to be permanent, you told her. It’s like I’m leaving a piece of myself behind. What exactly are you trying to leave? Shawna asked. I don’t know, you said, irritated. My thoughts. My beliefs. Don’t you think it’s important to know that something of yourself exists beyond your own body? Something that can outlive death? Shawna only shrugged and said: I think some people have left enough already.