"Light Boxes" is a unique novella written by Shane Jones that blends elements of fantasy and surrealism. The story revolves around a town that becomes trapped in a perpetual February, leading to a collective sense of despair among its residents. This unyielding winter symbolizes the struggle against depression and stagnation, forcing individuals to confront their feelings and desires in a stark, colorless environment. The narrative intertwines these emotions with imaginative tales of fantastical beings, including a figure known as the "Thompson," who plays a significant role in the community's attempts to break free from the cyclical gloom.
The book is notable for its distinctive structure, presenting a series of poetic vignettes that capture the essence of the characters and their plight. As the townsfolk grapple with the effects of the continuous February, they engage in creative endeavors as a means of coping. The prose employs vivid imagery and inventive language that invites readers to explore deeper themes of love, loss, and the human condition. This stylistic choice reinforces the emotional depth of the narrative, making it both intellectually and aesthetically stimulating.