Fireside Mystery Theatre · Fireside Mystery Productions

47.1 In the Garden: "The Scenic Root"

November 10, 2019·24 min·2 clips

Host Ali Silva introduces a chilling tale inspired by a famous poem about trees.

This episode is a live-recorded audio drama titled "The Scenic Root," presented by the Fireside Mystery Theatre. It features characters Roger, his sister Cindy, and Cindy's fiancé navigating a coastal landscape. The story draws thematic inspiration from the poem "Trees" by Alfred Joyce Kilmer. The narrative begins with the group, led by Roger, arriving at a location from his and Cindy's childhood. Cindy expresses concern over the desolate and "uninviting" nature of the area. Roger reminisces about a secret clubhouse they had hidden in the reeds past the dunes. Cindy is shocked that their parents allowed them to play unsupervised in such a place. The setting is established as a seemingly monotonous coastline they have been sailing past for over an hour. A sense of unease is introduced as Roger admits the specific area they've entered now feels unfamiliar. The live recording from New York City in September 2019 adds a layer of immediacy to the performance. The dialogue quickly establishes character dynamics, including Cindy's exasperation and her fiancé's more diplomatic role. The mysterious landscape itself becomes a central character, described as both scary and monotonous. The promise of a hidden clubhouse suggests deeper secrets within this environment. The tone is atmospheric and suspenseful, building mystery through naturalistic conversation. The style is a classic, live-performed narrative drama focusing on setting and character interaction. Listeners who enjoy slow-burn, atmospheric mystery fiction with strong sound design will appreciate this episode. Those preferring fast-paced action or explicit plot details from the outset might find it less engaging.

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