A Letter Will Come Tomorrow: Literary Fiction Review

Psychiatrist Naomi O'Hara, suffering from a serious illness, closes the door of her office for the last time and boards a night train, bound for New York City, to be present to experience a new hope for the future- the birth of her grandchild. It's 2021- 20 years since 9/11- dark years of wars, terrorism, and extreme restrictions on individual freedoms. The stories told by the people she meets on the train turns the trip into an deeply emotional and spiritual experience.

Dedicated "To all victims of war, terrorism, and violence," the novel's story thread is interestingly propelled along its tracks of time through metaphorical illustration and engaging conversations. The book is all-inclusive, including different races and religions, and spanning generations. Timeless, the author's fiction will be fresh 100 years from today. "A Letter That Will Come Tomorrow" is a literary masterpiece of word artistry.

Naomi meets a Viet Nahm veteran, "...large, hollowed-out eyes...set against rich brown skin...blue and clear but somewhat deserted, like lagoons in the southernmost Pacific Islands..." The veteran's story is one of personal survival. His buddies died one by one around him, and now he wonders why he is still alive.

Other interesting passengers, reflecting the times through their personalities and conversation include a well-dressed uptight surgeon, a Lokota Indian who believes it is time for all people to come together "...in this period of endless war..." An Amish elder and his granddaughter whose wearing apparel remind Naomi of a "...older, quieter more dignified world." Two children ages six and four, still innocent, symbolize to Naomi the tragedy our collective lost innocence.

As Naomi reflects on her past, the future, and the present struggling with her hidden illness, the passengers on the train tell more personal stories epitomizing the times- a virtual 2021 police state operating under the label of "national security," and a time when even personal medical records are scrutinized.

The book's theme is also illustrated by a Japanese poet, Akiko Yosano. The author translated from Japanese to English her poem, "O My Brother, You Must Not Die," The message reverberates from 100 years ago to today:

"Oh my brother, I cry for you.
You must not die-
You were the youngest child
So your parents thought all the more of you.
And did they make you grasp a blade in your hand.
Teaching you to kill and then to die?
Have you so learned and grown to twenty-four?"

"A Letter That Will Come Tomorrow" will challenge readers to consider how "twisted patriotism" erodes our humanity, and how this mindset leads to terrorism, wars, and other violent acts. The book is a must-read for anyone loving peace and personal freedoms. Concerned about family safety, the author remains anonymous, writing under a pseudonym.

Review by Bernie Nelson
Source: Naomi O'Hara, "A Letter Will Come Tomorrow" book.