title: Voices From A Far Field
author: Bowden, Calvin
description: Heck Tennel returns after 65 years to small Texas town he fled when 18, leaving behind a destitute family and a girl he loved. Found by girl’s aunt, he is urged to return for critical message. Aunt has died, but message can be found in special place known only to him and Gloria in l934. Heck reminisces with Negro boyhood friend, and that night his mind goes back to May, 1934, to recount details of Saturday night country musicals, butter and egg routes and conflict between passion and lasting love as he struggles to support his dysfunctional family and become a country music recording star. Gloria is that proper girl he wants, but courting her prompts problems with coarse ex-girlfriend and Gloria’s vicious aunt who files criminal charges. He flees, as he must avoid incarceration to support his family. It appears that his dreams to improve his life are gone forever. In final chapter, Heck receives messages and gifts he never thought possible, causing him to suspect that life can be good for bitter old clodhoppers after all.