BCC Shines A Light On: Rachel Abbey McCafferty
Name of the piece published by BCC:
When/where was it originally published:
formercactus, 2018
Tell us more about your piece! What is the background of the piece? What led you to write it? What’s your process?
This was one of the first pieces I ever shared in a workshop, and it was an early publication for me, too. I’ve always been drawn to stories about apocalypses, but I struggled with how to end them. This one was a bit of a breakthrough for me, as I realized the key was hope. I sort of think a lot of life and the world is circular, and the idea of an end and a beginning being tied together made sense to me. It still does.
And I wish I had a process! I do make it a point to write – at least a little – or submit something five days a week, but I don’t put too many other parameters on my work. Some days, I finish a chapter or two in my novel draft; other days, I get a single sentence in a flash just right. And that’s okay!
How did you feel when it was first published and how have your thoughts or feelings on the piece changed from then to now?
I have a soft spot for this story. It was an early one, but one where I still feel like I captured what I wanted to say and in a voice that rang true.
Is there a specific message you would like readers to take away from reading this piece?
Things are always changing, sometimes for good, sometimes for bad. There’s always space for hope and renewal.
What else would you like to tell readers about your writing? (Doesn’t have to refer only to your BCC piece)
I think this piece represents my work well, in the way it threads light through the dark. I think writing is such a beautiful gift we give each other, and I’m so grateful to everyone who reads (and publishes!) my work.
Where can readers find more of your work? (Website/social media, etc)
I collect all of my publications at https://rachelabbeymccafferty.com/. And you can find me on Bluesky, Instagram and (at least for now) Twitter at @ramccafferty.
