Not a deterrent

It was a task well-executed, and now it’s time to celebrate. I don’t know from where these gun-toting masked creatures emerged. They changed the scenario of the party in a few minutes. I see blood trickling down the bodies of some friends. And there in a corner, lies someone who resembles me. But I feel … Continue reading Not a deterrent

Followers

“The economy is on a downswing.” “Raise the volumes on terrorism.” “We are meeting the Finance Minister today, not the Home Minister.” “I know that. Divert public attention before we think about corrective measures.” “Unemployment threatens to reach astronomical proportions.” “Engage the unemployed youth in discussions about national identity. All symbols are to be held … Continue reading Followers

Leonine

Just like every Leo, she always had to be the center of attention. Just like every Aries man, I was curious, and had to know about the sheathed claws. Result: A stormy interaction followed by a lifelong bond “Looks like you have been reading a lot of Linda Goodman…” “She was more of a good … Continue reading Leonine

Back there

I see a few curious glances darting in my direction, but they soon get busy with their game. I am seen as a stranger in this part of the state. I hope the caretakers do not suspect that I’m a kidnapper, as I stare at the kids unabashedly. They laugh at me, as I slide … Continue reading Back there

Take-off

She met the industrialist on the beach – a celebrity she respected and looked up to. “I’ve never done it before.” “You can. I never fail to spot talent.” “Are you sure you want me on board?” “An exciting career awaits you. Don’t lose confidence.” This vacation was going to be life-changing. She was ready … Continue reading Take-off

Relief

I am the black sheep in the family my mother looks down upon, and humiliates at the drop of a hat. I tried hard to come up to her expectations, and then reached a conclusion that it isn’t necessary. I’m happy to live my life in the way I want. There was a housebreak in … Continue reading Relief

Blue-eyed boy

“Sir, this act is in contravention of rules, and needs an approval from you.” “You are doing it to increase revenue, and enhance your performance ratings and increments/bonus. It’s in your own interest.” “That is beside the point, Sir. If something is beyond my defined powers, it needs an approval from you, or I could … Continue reading Blue-eyed boy

Layoffs

The water is so clear that I can see the crocodiles beneath – hungry, monstrous, wicked – showing no intent to hide themselves.  A few stranded passengers from a sunken ship await their fate on the island. They hope for an airlift but it does not happen. The only way back is through water, and … Continue reading Layoffs

Unfamiliar

I’ve just completed a tour of the building, after studying the different forms of art on display. The inscrutability of this face bothers me – hiding itself with broken arms, refusing to lend itself to interpretation. It is so much there – in your face - and yet not there. Epiphany strikes, and I resolve … Continue reading Unfamiliar

Guessing games

Rainbows are beautiful, but inadequate to narrate all hues and shades of human emotions. Skies make an effort with a few more colors – notorious blacks, ambiguous grays, perplexing purples and translucent blues. Yet, the barriers to the human mind are insurmountable – physical boundaries, personal space, privacy of thought, secretive silence – all conjure … Continue reading Guessing games