BASS 2026: Carolyn Ferrell, “The Horror” from Ploughshares #164

Long Island’s racist past – of Klan parades, cross burnings, and redlining – has been the cause of much frustration, anger, and devastation. In my explorations, though, I’ve also discovered hope, in the form of people and institutions actively resisting racial violence and discrimination. I myself haven’t given up hope that bigotry in all forms will NOT be our legacy (despite the world in which we currently find ourselves). “The Horror” takes a stab (pun intended) into Long Island’s complicated record; and judging from the numerous Tubi offerings (Once Upon a time in Amityville,” “Amityville Chupacabra,” “Amityville in Space,” etc.), I understand that this house is one that won’t go quietly, and maybe that’s how it should be. Carolyn Ferrell, Contributor Note, Best American Short Stories 2026 I’m beginning to have serious concerns about my cognitive fitness, as I struggled with a second story in a row. But I think there’s at least a precedent for this. It’s my third Ferrell story, and…

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