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

Driving out of Wonderland

Maureen was reading out stories to her daughter, Alice, on the long drive in the countryside. Suddenly, Alice perked up, “Look, Mom! The elf I met yesterday works in that factory.” “What?” “Yes. He manufactures rainbows and shoots them to the sky, so that kids like me can enjoy the sight.” “Writers and artists do … Continue reading Driving out of Wonderland

How do you love?

“All ardent lovers love in the same way…..”, rambled the storyteller. The tree interrupted, “No. As I spread out to meet the sky, others join me in the quest, and a miracle happens. The sky comes down to meet us. A moth kills itself to meet its flame. I just become stronger.” (274 characters) Twittering … Continue reading How do you love?

Reena’s Exploration Challenge #Week 20

Welcome to a fresh journey of exploration in 2018! If there are any suggestions about changing the pattern and format, while maintaining the spirit, please feel free to share. I am in a peculiar situation this week. While the world celebrates New Year, I have seen a life end, and her partner’s grief. My mother-in-law, … Continue reading Reena’s Exploration Challenge #Week 20

Missing Magic

He could not afford the entry ticket to the entertainment park in his childhood, and just looked wistfully at the kids recounting the fun they had. His job required him to drive through the park every day, now, and he could reach the deepest interiors. Somehow, the magic that he had always imagined was missing … Continue reading Missing Magic

Seething Within

The ringing phone cuts through the eerie silence and darkness in the house. She refuses to answer it, or end her self-imposed exile. She has been seething in rage on the injustice inflicted on her by the family. Deliberate cruelty cuts through one’s very existence, and destroys faith in filial or human bonds. The pain … Continue reading Seething Within