Brown Day

A book of short stories written by Actor Daniel J. Travanti.

I have written these short stories over a period of forty-two years. The writing relaxes me. They are entertainments. I have made a living as an actor for over fifty-seven years. Earned a Masters degree in English Literature from Loyola Marymount, Los Angeles; a Bachelor's degree in liberal arts from the University of Wisconsin; and two honorary PHD's, one from Emerson College in Boston, and another from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin, citing my achievements in the Humanities and the Performing Arts. Publishing is a brand new endeavor. Following the guidelines has been amusing, sometimes perplexing. My life as an actor has been a life of rejection with occasional acceptances, just enough to constitute a minor but substantial career. I have no fear. From here to the end, it's all fun. The "subjects" of the stories vary widely from one another. They are fantasies that explore complex humans in their complex emotional entanglements and physical situations. Each story takes place in a matter of hours, in one day. As Edgar Allen Poe advises in his astute literary criticism, a short story should be a compact tale told briefly and intensely, and convey one aura, make one solid impression that resonates during and following its reading. I subscribe to those criteria. Or, to be more honest, that's how these stories turned out. My conscious mind did not set out with Mr. Poe's guide lines. My subconscious ruled. And afterward, I realized what I had done . . . . or tried to do. The quality of these stories is a matter of individual determination. Everyone is right in his reaction to a written fiction. The entertainment value is personal, a subjective reaction, surely, sometimes followed by an analysis that results in additional pleasure to the reader, or a re-evaluation that reduces his approval. The stories don't mind. I am pleased to have them published. Sincerely, DANIEL J. TRAVANTI

Daniel J Travanti, a professional actor since 1963, embarked on his career in New York after obtaining his degree from the University of Wisconsin and attending the Yale School of Drama. With over fifty television series appearances as a guest star and notable roles as a regular in two popular shows, "Hill Street Blues" from 1981 through 1987, and "Missing Persons" for one season, Travanti has made a lasting impact on the small screen. Moreover, he has garnered acclaim for his performances in several esteemed television films, including "Adam," "A Case of Libel," and "Murrow." In addition, Travanti has showcased his talent in seven feature films. Recognized for his remarkable series work and television films, he has earned eight nominations for Best Actor, securing two Emmy awards and a Golden Globe. His outstanding narration in the groundbreaking documentary "How to Raise a Street-Smart Child" also garnered him a Cable Ace nomination (now merged with the Emmy nominations). A member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which selects Oscar winners, Travanti has been part of critically acclaimed theater productions in Boston, Washington, DC, Los Angeles, London, and Highland Park, Illinois. While he has graced the New York stage twice in small off-Broadway productions, he fondly recalls Terry Teachout, a highly regarded theater critic, commending him for his exceptional portrayal of two captivating characters, one tragi-comic. Teachout's review hailed Travanti as an exciting talent, expressing hope for his return. As he reflects on his career, Travanti humorously notes that no one has extended an invitation since 2008.