Author Cynan Jones reads 'Pulse,' a story of a man battling a storm to find a missing woman. The intense atmosphere and the protagonist's emotional journey make for a gripping narrative.
The story explores the disconnection within a family during a storm, highlighting the struggle to maintain relationships amidst chaos.
The climber's precision in removing a dangerous branch underscores the impact of crisis on sense of safety.
Deep dives
The Storm's Impact on the Family
In the midst of a storm, a family faces challenges as power outage and hazardous weather conditions affect their daily routine. The husband struggles to manage the aftermath, working relentlessly to clear fallen branches and debris while feeling disconnected from his family amidst the chaos.
The Tree Surgeon's Rescue Mission
A climber takes on the dangerous task of cutting a branch threatening power lines, demonstrating expertise and caution in the face of imminent danger. As the climber carefully handles the situation, the family witnesses the tree's removal, impacting their sense of safety and relief.
Post-Storm Reflection and Fear
After the storm passes and the tree is removed, the family reflects on the moment of crisis, grappling with fear and the fragility of their surroundings. Memories of past events and the unpredictability of nature linger, leaving them reassessing their sense of security and vulnerability in the aftermath of the harrowing experience.
Cynan Jones reads his story “Pulse,” from the May 6, 2024, issue of the magazine. Jones is the author of six books of fiction, including, most recently, the novel “Cove” and the story collection “Stillicide.” His previous story in The New Yorker, “The Edge of the Shoal,” was the 2017 winner of the BBC National Short Story Award.