I've long been fascinated by the story of Thomas Kirkbride, a Quaker and architect who believed that our environment played a crucial role in our mental health. Kirkbride is responsible for the building of "insane asylums" across the country, imposing, fortress-like structures that to the eye looked like they were designed to star in terrifying Ari Aster films. In reality, Kirkbride envisioned these buildings as instrumental to healing. If one were to have a bird's eye view of the hospitals, they looked like bird's wings outstretched, ready to take flight. The sickest patients were placed at the furthest end of the wings; as they healed, they moved closer to the exit. And to freedom.

This is the story about a different kind of fortress. One specifically designed to keep people in and to cause extreme discomfort while inside. Judging by the title, this story touches on darker themes, specifically on the ways we cause suffering. There is so much suffering. But as always, we hope it leads to meaningful conversations like the one we had with Freddy.

If you have wanted to submit a story but worried it was too short, this is your time! This is an official call for entires for your short but scary tales. We'll be compiling our favorites for a future anthology episode, so send them on! Got a shadow person lurking in your bedroom? Strangers that invade your dreams? Give us a shout at [email protected]

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Artwork by @vonmuren

all music from Universal Produciton Music