Fresh Ink: An Anthology

This story takes place during World War II. The narrator, Zakary James, is a 16-year-old boy of color who left his father’s farm at age 12. He admits that he was never suited to living on the farm. Although he regularly worked eight- and 10-hour days for his father, he realized that he was most interested in “books.”

Now, he’s unhoused but spends most of his time at the Lucky Linda Café. He was previously involved with a group of boys who robbed the owner, Mr. Jackson, and in recompense for what they did, he painted a mural of stars and planets on the outside of the café. He describes painting the mural as an act of painting a “new life,” and six months later, he feels like a new person. He regularly helps Mr. Jackson and his wife, Ma Susie, by waiting on customers in return for food. He has a love-hate relationship with Mr. Jackson, who regularly complains about his unhoused status and scolds him for sleeping in the café yet begrudgingly thanks him and feeds him for his help. Ultimately, Zakary plans to join the Navy.

As business dies down each day, Zakary sits and paints.