Date

9-19-2023

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Chair

James Latta

Keywords

Coming-of-age, Mental Health, Schizophrenia, Bullying

Disciplines

Creative Writing

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the first act of a coming-of-age YA novel. Visions of Aline is about a high school senior, Joey Astor. Having been diagnosed with schizophrenia four years ago, he’s been under a grand delusion that he is the school’s most feared bully. Unhappy that Joey is copying him, the real bully, Kaleb Kane, fights back. For four years, Joey and Kaleb have had a bitter and fierce rivalry. With the end of high school near, the two are determined to prove who rightfully deserves the title of the most feared. When Joey’s schizophrenic episodes start to worsen, and Kaleb is given the opportunity for change, the two have to determine if the title they are fighting for is who they truly are. The thesis explores not only the first act of the novel but also its themes, research, and the author’s hopeful takeaway for readers.

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