Melancholy Highway

I'm writing a section of The J.A.S.O.N. File that takes place directly after the 9/11 attacks. A group of people sharing a rental car, trying to get home. I'm mapping the route and wondering if I want to use real town names or make them up. At this point, I'll probably do both.

I'm thinking back on that day, how unsettling it was and, at the same time, Americans had a politeness and patriotism that was remarkable. I'm remembering all of the American flags and deep conversations, but I remember the politeness. It was a remarkable, melancholy, horrific day.