Out the Dark: a queer road to mental health in Bloomington, MN

This alternative (and dark) collection of found poetry explores one woman's story as she navigated the intricate world of mental health, gender identity/orientation, and societal acceptance.
Through the reconstruction (and deconstruction) of an early draft version of the author's forthcoming novel, each poem unveils the raw emotions and challenges faced in the wake of coming out as queer. Through the sometimes brutal expression of internal conflict and the harsh reality of external pressures, these words capture her very difficult struggle for belonging.
With unflinching honesty, the poet navigates the complexities of sexuality, medical interventions, and the allure of escapism through sex, drugs, and alcohol. Each word, meticulously selected for inclusion or blackout, page by page, paints a picture of resilience.
A testament to the power of expression and how transforming a text can be emotionally transformative, this is a journey of acceptance, understanding, and ultimately, self-love.