Fly Far, Far Away: Hitman, Escapism, and Finding Joy Through Play

In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of memory, identity, and digital escape through the lens of Kishonna L. Gray’s personal essay “Dear God, Make Me a Bird, So I Can Fly Far Far Away from Here.” From childhood afternoons spent playing Hitman with friends to rediscovering the series as a source of solace in graduate school, Gray reflects on how this iconic game franchise became more than entertainment—it became a passport to the world and a catalyst for academic curiosity. Join us as we unpack how Hitman offered not just gameplay, but a way to cope, connect, and imagine beyond borders.