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The Gathering - Wee 25
I take a deep breath then exhale. My life-force becomes visible in the dark of the cold street.
Inside, the flat will be unchanged: the stink of the old bastard’s aftershave; Mammy’s hairspray--ah no, the chemo took her hair.
I wasn’t supposed to return until after Da died. Twenty years later, he still drinks while she’s eaten from the inside out.
My phone buzzes. I never answer, don’t want to hear unchanged voices then be shocked by old faces. A text arrives: Mammy’s gone.
I rest my forehead against the door then turn away, knowing I'll never come back.
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| Excellent, but so sad. Well done. Janet |
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Comment by: karjon - 2008-02-17 14:03
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Rosie, Geordie, Grae - thanks for the comments.
It's a bleak wee piece, but I'm glad you enjoyed just the same.
Cheers
Karen |
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Solid tale of sadness, Karen. Well written and of quality. Inner feelings and emotions are displayed and the story is so vital from only a few short sentences.
Time changes us beyond our recollections and there is no going back.
Thanks for the read, Karen, it touched me deeply
Grae:( |
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Comment by: wizzer - 2008-02-13 14:28
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gorgeous. perfect. poignant, just the right pace
xxxgeo |
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Wow, Karen - this is really powerful writing. I can't believe you managed to cram 3 lives into 100 words. I was particularly moved by the phrase, 'he still drinks while she's eaten from the inside out'.
Nothing mawkish about it - just great writing. I'll be mulling on this one. |
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"Wonderful World of Worders"
A collection of micro-fiction by 72 writers, from 27 countries, compiled by Jenni Doherty, published by Guildhall Press with support from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
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