In a contemplative piece that explores the intricacies of identity and relationships, author Steven Rowley, best known for his novel ‘Take Me With You’, reflects on a thought-provoking conversation with his husband, Byron. Their discussion, sparked by the strange, serene environment of Palm Springs after relocating from Los Angeles, takes a peculiar turn when Rowley poses the hypothetical question: if a UFO were to beam down in their backyard, would Byron choose to leave with it?
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Byron’s swift and unwavering response, that he would indeed embark on such an adventure, led to a rift of emotions for Rowley. Despite recognizing the inherent value in exploring the mysteries of the universe, he finds himself grappling with feelings of inadequacy and a profound sense of alienation. After years of sharing their lives together, the notion that Byron would opt for the unknown over their established life left Rowley pondering the true depths of their relationship.
As Rowley reflects on the implications of Byron’s answer, he considers the complexities of partnership, where even the most intimate of relationships can reveal layers of mystery. The conversation transitioned from a light-hearted query to an existential reflection, showing that perhaps no one ever truly knows another person in their entirety.
A few days later, as Byron engages in what he describes as sending signals into the universe, the absurdity of the situation contrasts sharply with Rowley’s more grounded approach to life. While Rowley immerses himself in the predictable narratives of old episodes of ‘Law & Order’, Byron seeks a more expansive connection with the cosmos. This pastime soon becomes a light-hearted ritual that the couple shares with others, transforming their initial debate into a broader commentary on the human experience of longing and connection.
However, when a family emergency arises, and Byron must rush to Louisiana to support his mother following a heart attack, Rowley is left in a state of both concern and introspection. The sudden separation prompts him to revisit the metaphor of space travel, likening Byron’s journey as a return to the “mother ship.” In his absence, Rowley navigates newfound solitude, slowly realising the operational dynamics that Byron had managed to maintain within their household.
As days turn into weeks, loneliness begins to gnaw at Rowley, leading him to question not just Byron’s commitment, but the nature of their relationship. He fears that amidst their years together, they may not have truly seen each other. The quiet of their home amplifies his feelings of alienation, revealing his own struggles with vulnerability and self-expression, shaped by a childhood steeped in secrecy and a desire to embrace his identity in a world that often felt isolating.
Soon after a month of separation, a call comes through: Byron is returning home. In a whirlwind of emotions, Rowley is elated yet anxious, unsure if the essence of the man he loves has been transformed by this experience. When Byron finally returns, he brings not only his mother’s dog but also an unexpected addition to their family: a lively dachshund mix. This new pet, filled with energy and curiosity, becomes a symbol of exploration and adaptability, reflecting the evolving dynamics of their lives together.
In a poignant conclusion, Rowley realises that relationships, much like journeys into the unknown, involve continuous learning and rediscovery. As the couple reintegrates into their shared life, they forge a deeper understanding of one another, suggesting that the quest for connection may be the most compelling adventure of all.
‘Take Me With You’ by Steven Rowley invites readers into a narrative rich with introspection and warmth, available now wherever books are sold. Through this exploration of love, identity, and the mysteries we hold both within ourselves and our relationships, Rowley offers a reflective journey that resonates with the ever-present complexities of human connection.