One would think that when dealing with a concept such as angels versus demons, or Heaven versus Hell, the line between good and evil would be fairly clear and easy to read.

N  o  t  h  i  n  g    i  s    e  v  e  r    t  h  a  t    s  i  m  p  l  e .

If there is an overriding theme to be found in Brethren, perhaps it can be summed up via the maxim, "Every man for himself."

It can easily be argued that the most glorious gift given to man by his Creator is the gift of free will. However, how many individuals use that gift to serve the glory of a higher power or united cause? Very few. Unfortunately, an ample majority of mortals spend their short time on this diminutive planet ceaselessly attempting to satisfy their own insatiable needs.

In Brethren, immortals are also subject to such failings.

However, if the gratification of one's selfish desires manages to foster a greater good in the community at large, it is still considered wrong? Each character in this body of work is fighting to create his or her own paradise. However, paradise is subjective. One man's Heaven is another man's Hell...

O  r    M  o  r  t  a  l    P  l  a  n  e    p  e  r  h  a  p  s .

So why do several of these individuals unite to fight as one? Could it be that visions of paradise are not always as unique as one might believe? Perhaps the differences arise not in defining or creating a paradise, but in deciding who rules it.

 Brethren and all related characters © Cheryl Lynn Eaton