Another Perspective on Levi Peterson

Dear Editor,After reading Melissa Leilani Larson's review of Levi Peterson's short story collection, Losing a Bit Eden (“The Promise and Limitations Working-Class Male Protagonists,” Dialogue, Summer 2022), I would like to offer different perspective. had an easier time the stories than she did; saw misogyny as satirized.Peterson's main characters—mostly male, mostly rural Western, all ambivalently Mormon—range in age from fourteen (“Badge Bryant”) sixty-five (Rulon “The Return Native”). The take place late nineteenth century, twentieth early twenty-first century. Most importantly, protagonists lose at least “a bit Eden” (their innocence, their assumptions about themselves others); some lot. Many men behave badly; most suffer intense guilt. sins that torment them almost always involve sex. These ultimately regard weak, not manly. reader is asked understand them.There are couple who seem unredeemable—not characters but nevertheless important action story—and they both shot death, one by woman.Although outnumber women stories, found many be compelling characters, even when told (literary) point view. A contemporary woman narrates title story, which trapped, during snowstorm, motel room with her bishop. In “Cedar City,” view moves back forth between unworthy missionary young he leaves behind. Usually, we get know female dialogue actions.Some collection's succumb sexual temptation and, male counterparts, feel guilty. major loyal; resourceful, strong. For example, character Shyster,” narrated increasingly supportive husband, dynamic, feminist defense attorney small town provincial ward. Self-reliant Iris, “Bode Iris,” intelligently juxtaposes Mormon Baptist religions.Except for two Vietnamese, African American, Latina prostitutes defended there no persons color collection. Yet, unlike Larson, scope book wide—wide enough me temporarily live worlds libidinous teenage boys Linroth, Arizona; uneasily rehabbed Seattle street addict derelict logging named Beaufort; polygamous family Oakley nearby Park City was known silver mines timbering camp.As reread caught up again drama. What happen Effie Hoyt, Jennie Reeves, Rulon, Darby? Peterson adroit storyteller. cared people stories—losing little or lot Eden, changed, grew ways never imagined. They journeyed into brave new world.