Myths

“This house has been deserted for more than a decade. You’ll need to clean cobwebs before any investigation takes place.” “Who waters the plants? They all look fresh.” “That is the story in local circulation. The house is believed to be haunted.” “Oh, those caring souls in there must have green fingers.” His sarcastic voice … Continue reading Myths

Search

She would often pull the chain, and get off at this tiny railway station. At times she had to pay a fine for pulling the chain without reason, but she did not mind. It took an entire day to roam around the shanty township, spend some time near the pond, and keenly observe every male … Continue reading Search

Cancerous

“The tread of time is so ruthless that it tramples even the kings under its feet.” “Yeah, glorified CEOs get booted out on corruption.” Sunil’s head was buried in the newspaper. “Only those who failed to share the booty. Or they would have an army to support them.” “I guess you’re right. The chain is … Continue reading Cancerous

Flavored

They would have flavoured water served to the guests – strawberry, mint and lemon. The mocktails would have pineapple, coconut water as the main ingredients, other than the ubiquitous tomato juice. It’s not easy planning a party for vegans and teetotallers. She has spent two days scanning recipes online, writing shopping lists and buying the … Continue reading Flavored

Who is in the driver’s seat?

“Looks like this was abandoned quite some time ago … the vehicle is worn out, and the wheels have sunk deep in the mud.” Alex is in a mood for adventure, and he has found something interesting. “Look closely, you might see plants sprouting up there.” “Not sure, but I see flowers …. and (clears … Continue reading Who is in the driver’s seat?

On the edge of creativity

“One should not start a novel, without deciding what the end will be.” “My characters assume life, and do whatever they like.” “You are like the ringmaster in a circus. Make them toe the line.” “Can the ringmaster be sure that the beasts will always behave?” “Well …” "Creativity is like driving a car at … Continue reading On the edge of creativity

Ice between us

“There you go – messing it up again. Why can’t you ever get things done right?” Martha’s shrill voice pierces my soul. I let my imagination go astray – a life without being blamed for every inconsequential act or mishap, a life with total freedom of doing things my way. The heat of a mismatched … Continue reading Ice between us

Forget your woes

A small note scribbled at the bottom of this signboard… I’m on the way to drop my child to school. They have specified where to buy the food, uniforms and books from, where to get the gas filled etc. Please get yourself empanelled. I’d love to drop by sometimes… Reply from owner Please ensure that … Continue reading Forget your woes

I believe in you

The pony extricated itself from paper, and galloped away… I think that a child’s imagination is in overdrive, till I see a live pony in my backyard, looking intently at my daughter, awaiting instructions. “Carla, where did this come from?” She shows me a book called ‘Velveteen Rabbit’, where a boy’s love brings his toy … Continue reading I believe in you

In Search

The tree looks similar to the one in my backyard, but is small and has leaves of a different color. I’ve not seen this species before. “Wait”, I stop in my tracks at the familiar rustling sound. “I broke away from my roots, and walked here in search of a new identity. The sunk roots … Continue reading In Search