‘Mountain View’ is narrative coming of age story of a young girl named Jokate who lives deep in the mountains of Appalachia.
As Jokate introduces herself, we also learn about her kinfolk, and with each description we get a clearer picture of her culture and surroundings. She shares with us her curiosities, her dreams, and practical observations of life while lurking shadows are slowly revealed. Jokate is independent and loyal and it is this loyalty she has toward her kinfolk and homeplace that is difficult for her to let go of when it is time for her to leave, but leave she must.
Characters of ‘Mountain View’
Buddy - lives in his own world because he’s somewhat cognitively limited and it’s safer there. Although he is dependent on Jokate, he is not as limited as he appears to be. He’s hungry for a father figure and finds one in Herman albeit not a perfect one.
Mother - has lost her dreams and is stuck in a situation she feels there is no escape from nor hope for. She blames her kids for much of her woes and refuses to seek any resolve. She finds her solace in drinking and smoking and practicing more and more self-destructive habits.
Great Aunt Faye - is of another generation. She often looks the other way during family troubles. She feels helpless in protecting the children from abuse and can only offer love and a safe haven to come to every now and again. She puts her faith and worries in the Lord’s hands and believes all will be taken care of by him.
Uncle John - is also a distant protector of sorts making Jokate feel special and confiding to her information that she should and has a right to know. He and Aunt Pie teach Jokate right from wrong and the common sense and practical know-how she needs to have to get by.
Aunt Pie - is self-absorbed and somewhat of a busy-body. She keeps herself distracted from seeing the truth in her world by being consumed with worry, fretting, and arthritis.
Herman - is wily and suspicious but not evil. He exploits Buddy but he also gives him a feeling of worthiness and a feeling of being connected.
Pappy Stovall - is Jokate’s Grandfather and not at all whom he appears to be. Jokate conjures him in her memory.
Jokate - tells the audience who she is and where she comes from openly sharing stories about her life and her family bringing herself and the audience up to the present tense.
The Musician(s) - weaves his/her music in and out providing fluid transitions as needed. The Musician is much like The Mountain – a watchful presence when on stage – a kind of muse – guardian angel perhaps.