Imagine reconnecting with someone from your past after nearly two decades and finding solace in shared experiences. That’s the journey Kelsey Carlee takes us on in her heartfelt epistolary novel, “For the Eternal Record.“
Rekindling Connections Amidst Personal Turmoil
In 2020, as the world grappled with unprecedented challenges, Kelsey Carlee reached out to Cole Alabaster, a man she shared a brief summer romance with back in 2001. Cole was incarcerated at the time, facing not only the isolation of prison life but also the difficulties of a hearing disability. What began as a quest for closure evolved into a profound exchange of letters that helped both Kelsey and Cole navigate their personal struggles.
Kelsey was deep in the throes of grief after the loss of her mother in 2019, a heart-wrenching experience compounded by the fact that she had to make the tough decision to remove her from life support. As she worked on her memoir, “Double Crossed and Unraveled,” Kelsey was also confronting the traumas of her past, seeking to break free from the chains that had long held her back.
The Power of Unfiltered Correspondence
The memoir unfolds through the candid letters exchanged between Kelsey and Cole. These aren’t just casual notes; they’re raw, unfiltered conversations that delve into their deepest emotions and life experiences. Readers are given an intimate glimpse into their realities—Kelsey’s journey through grief and healing, and Cole’s experiences within the prison system during a global pandemic.
Cole’s letters offer a unique perspective on life behind bars, especially as the coronavirus pandemic brings additional tension and uncertainty. He shares his challenges, including dealing with a hearing disability in an environment not designed for accessibility, and the turmoil of a prison riot unfolding around him.
Kelsey, on the other hand, uses writing as a means of advocacy and self-healing. Through her letters, she offers support to Cole and confronts her own past traumas. Her words serve as a bridge, connecting two people separated by time and circumstance but united in their search for understanding and peace.
Themes of Love, Friendship, and Healing
“For the Eternal Record” delves deep into themes of love, friendship, and the complex process of healing from past wounds. The memoir doesn’t shy away from heavy subjects, touching on grief, trauma, sexual assault, and abuse. Yet, it approaches these topics with sensitivity and honesty, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences.
The exchange between Kelsey and Cole illustrates how opening up about one’s struggles can lead to profound personal growth. Their journey underscores the importance of making peace with the past while there’s still time, and the transformative power of genuine human connection.
About the Author: Writing with Purpose
Kelsey Carlee, hailing from the Seattle area, is known for her unapologetic and candid writing style. She openly shares her experiences with trauma, not to seek sympathy, but to help others who may be facing similar challenges. By bringing her own stories to light, Kelsey aims to create a sense of solidarity and hope for her readers.
Her previous memoir, “Double Crossed and Unraveled,” laid the foundation for “For the Eternal Record.” In it, she began the process of untangling the complexities of her past. This latest work continues that journey, highlighting her growth and the ongoing effort to break free from what has held her back.
Why “For the Eternal Record” Resonates
In a time when authentic connections can feel rare, Kelsey’s and Cole’s story offers a refreshing reminder of the healing that can come from vulnerability. Their letters serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact that honesty and empathy can have on our lives.
The memoir also sheds light on often-overlooked perspectives, such as the experiences of incarcerated individuals with disabilities during a pandemic. It invites readers to consider the broader implications of isolation, both physical and emotional, and the importance of advocating for those who may not have a voice.
Final Thoughts
“For the Eternal Record” is more than just a collection of letters; it’s a moving exploration of healing, redemption, and the enduring power of human connection. Kelsey Carlee invites readers to join her on a deeply personal journey, one that is both unique to her experience and universally relatable.
Whether you’re familiar with Kelsey’s previous work or new to her writing, this memoir offers valuable insights into the complexities of love, loss, and the courage it takes to confront the past. It’s a story that encourages us all to reach out, to listen, and to find solace in the shared human experience.
If you’re searching for a heartfelt and thought-provoking read, “For the Eternal Record” is a memoir that promises to leave a lasting impression.