Quaker author Annalee Flower Horne’s article, “Refuse All Their Colors,” appears in the November 2023 issue of Friends Journal.
Annalee Flower Horne discusses their new short story “Refuse All Their Colors” set in 1777 during the Revolutionary War. The story explores Quakers’ perspectives on magic through the lens of alternate history. In it, some Quakers object to the use of magic while others are more accepting. The protagonist quietly uses thread magic to muffle sounds in the meeting house. The story was inspired by real events where both sides robbed Quakers in Valley Forge. It examines how Quakers might respond if magic existed and considers acoustic challenges for Quaker worship. The discussion highlights how fiction can provide new insights into history. This video focuses on the origins and themes of Flower Horne’s short story about Quakers and magic during the Revolutionary War period.
Annalee Flower Horne is a science fiction writer, open source technologist, historical fashion nerd, and member of Takoma Park (Md.) Meeting. They live near Washington, D.C., with their spouse, son, four typewriters, and one greyhound.
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