Coping Up

It was the thirteenth and final day of the last rites of the old lady. THE PARTNER Her nonagenarian partner kept staring at the designer ceiling of the room, and broke down occasionally. He cried without tears, which appeared to be his stubbornness or demand for attention at times, but one could also sense helplessness. … Continue reading Coping Up

Fear that he would outlive ….

He had learnt the hard way that he had to fear smallness of the self in so-called human beings, the greed that emanated from an awful sense of inadequacy, the fear of not being able to face his completeness, the hollowness that led to bragging, the anger at his self-sufficiency, of not needing anybody but … Continue reading Fear that he would outlive ….

Bonding

"The credit for this award goes to my Dad, who gave all of himself to raise me and promote my career," said Angela, the beautiful winner of the Best Debut Award with tears in her eyes. The father-daughter bond between the ageing actor and his budding star daughter was seen as exemplary. He had gone all … Continue reading Bonding

The Final Game

The audience had never seen him in such form before. He appeared to be overstretching himself, but winning nevertheless. Only his wife knew that it was his last game, before the cancer rendered him incapable of playing.   Three Line Tales - Week 103

Too Cute

‘Too cute’ is a term she refrains from using for anyone she likes. Years ago, she had looked at someone and thought “Gawd, give me this guy. He is just too cute.” He was more than just being cute – intelligent, successful and manipulative. He had been a friend, mentor and guide for years, till … Continue reading Too Cute

Foundations

Antono had received a box of picture postcards from his grandfather, as a part of his inheritance. There were messages in his handwriting on the backside, which never drew his attention. His sister was the one who devoured each word. Their parents divorced and they moved to different cities, one with each parent, leading separate … Continue reading Foundations

Chili Mushroom

The life of Mien Zong was featured in the inspirational Rags-to-Riches magazine section. He was a man of few words – short and stout, with an enigmatic smile. He wore a cylindrical hat which could classify him as a chef or magician, but not the successful businessman he was. It had been his signature style … Continue reading Chili Mushroom

Restoration

The mercury is gradually rising, but the wheels refuse to move. There is a funny screeching sound, which appears to say, I remember you riding me ages ago. But then, I was buried in snow and you did not bother to pull me out. The warmth I felt towards you has frozen. The grudge against … Continue reading Restoration

Ready for Transformation

“What is he blowing into the air?” “Let your perception decide.” “Those could be sperms out to meet their partner to justify their existence? Fireballs of creativity? Weapons of chemical or biological warfare?” “Does it scare you?” “Not really.” “Then you are ready for transformation,” spoke the guru, “The man comes from another world, and … Continue reading Ready for Transformation

Pain

Wildlife photography had taken him into the deepest terrains of forests, and working in this zoo with manicured lawns was a cinch in comparison. For the last time, he checked the list of animals he was supposed to capture on film. This one was the seventh, and Alan was transfixed by its grace of movement. … Continue reading Pain