“The Man in My Basement” by Walter Mosley

“The Man in My Basement” is almost a writer’s version of a symphony. His theme is quiet and subtly played, but draws you into his music by changing the rhythms to make a man’s most mundane existence extraordinary.

The two main characters couldn’t be more diverse. Charles Blakey lives in the house and property his family has owned for generations. He recently lost his job and is behind on his mortgage. The other man, Anniston Bennet, appears to be a man of means who wants to rent Blakey’s basement for the summer at a rate “that would make it worth his while.” Money would be more than welcome, but as with any offer that comes out of the blue, there are strange provisions that go along with it. At first the offer is scrapped, but is later reviewed for financial reasons and a man’s ransom.

As the story progresses, the plot thickens by allowing the reader to discover the strange personality quirks of both men. One reveals that he is a closet snatcher and possibly a drunk without much care for himself or the people in his life. The other one turns out to be a complete hoax, hiding his cultural background and the fact that he is, in fact, a ruthless killer, who now begins to regret his life.

Like a good symphony, you know that this rather simple story must end. Due to the events that take place, you also know that it will be more like a dirge at its completion, but you keep reading. The ending, as a melody, is not surprising, but it was an interesting orchestration.

Carine is a journalist and writing coach with many different journalistic areas of interest. She has published articles in major magazines, websites, and newspapers. To read more of Carine’s work, visit: http://www.Carine-whatscooking.blogspot.com