James Francis Dwyer - The bust of Lincoln (1912): In the poignant tale "The Bust of Lincoln," a fragile yet determined young man named John, confined by illness in a stifling room, finds solace and connection through an unlikely medium—a bust of Abraham Lincoln. As winter rages outside, John, grappling with the isolation of his condition, devises a method to communicate with the outside world, specifically with his dear friend Lulu, using the symbolic bust. The story unfolds in a small, snow-bound room where every breath and movement is a challenge. Yet, John's creative use of the Lincoln bust transforms his limited physical space into a stage for courage and quiet innovation. The narrative delves deep into themes of perseverance, the power of symbolic objects, and the profound impact of simple acts of communication. Rich with emotional depth and subtle humor, "The Bust of Lincoln" captures the essence of human resilience and the unspoken bonds that connect us all.