A Madness Ago

"A Madness Ago" by Dana Thomas Clancy is a poignant and introspective memoir that traces the author's tumultuous journey from his early childhood to his young adult years. Born in 1948, the narrative opens with the author's recollections of his idyllic early years spent on the grounds of the Veterans Administration Hospital in Northampton, Massachusetts. These formative years were marked by innocence, mischief, and a sense of freedom as he explored the fairgrounds, encountered wild cats, picked strawberries, and uncovered the secrets within the hospital's walls. The author paints a vivid picture of his childhood friends, including Twiggy and Maura O'Leary, who introduced him to both the beauty and darkness of the world. Twiggy's complex relationship with the author left a lasting impact, blurring the lines between childhood innocence and unsettling experiences.