Two years ago I had my life changed by Burning Man, and wanted to tell the world about it. I've since written a 650-page work of psychological fiction, the climax of which takes place at Burning Man 2003.
The problem is, very few agents these days are accepting fiction - especially fiction that's a little quirky. The manuscript is complete, and chronicles the spiritual awakening of a presumptuous young psychologist who has bartered his soul for respect.
Often irreverent, the plot describes his descent into Portland, Oregon's dark and passionate Gothic subculture through an Ecstasy-addicted patient with whom he’s fallen in love. Provocative and psychological, the reader is taken on a tour of the underground fringe - from a farcical vampire role-playing cult to the Dionysian Burning Man festival, where the protagonist finally learns that the difference between doctor and patient is never as clear as it seems.
This uplifting work has allowed me to expose what really happens in therapy while exploring; choice vs. fate, the struggle between duty and being true to one’s heart, and the possibility that redemption may be found in this life. In short, the book teaches us to be AUTHENTIC with each other, and honest with ourselves.
Those of you who have been to the Playa will recognize these as classic BURNING MAN epiphanies! We've all had these experiences, and I've finally been in a place to write a good story about it.
As for me, I'm a clinical psychologist practicing in the Portland area. I also teach college courses when I am not writing, reading, or playing the Celtic harp in coffee shops.
Please let me know if you, or anyone you know might be able to help me. I've had several people (including burners) read the book and the feedback has been very positive. Now all I need is for someone in the business to give it a nod.
I can be contacted at [email protected]
or 503-889-4012 if you have any questions.
Thanks for reading,
Michael Friedrichs, Ph.D.
