The Cold Kiln

Text 1: The Clay Room, by Daniel Merritt

An original novel extract.

The kiln clicked once and fell silent. Nora waited for the familiar hum to return, but the workshop held its breath around her. On the workbench, six bowls stood in a row, their rims still rough beneath her thumb.

She lifted the first one towards the window. A thin crack crossed its blue glaze, branching like a river on a map. She set it down beside the others, carefully, as if care could mend it. The shelves behind her were crowded with mugs and plates, all marked with the small white label that said SOLD. In the corner, the wheel shone clean and unused.

Her brother had offered to take the shelves months ago. Nora had said there was no need. Now she wrapped each bowl in newspaper, though no one had asked her to save them. Outside, rain ticked at the skylight. She carried the last box to the doorway and stopped. The kiln stood dark against the wall, its open mouth waiting for nothing. She pulled the door shut, but the latch did not catch.

How does Daniel Merritt use language and structure to show Nora’s disappointment about the workshop closing?

You should use relevant subject terminology to support your answer.