Overestimates

There is something inside that cylindrical structure blocking the road. The pathway does not qualify to be called a road, but strangely, it finds itself reflected in the sky. Ominous clouds on both sides are positioned, as if trying to lung towards the center. The end of the pathway is also the beginning of the … Continue reading Overestimates

Succeed I will …

The palmist did not take a glorious view of my knotty fingers and short nails. He said I was too analytical, too critical and it led to poor interpersonal relations. I carefully observed the shadow of my hand. The tentacles were good enough to wrap themselves around the throat of criminals. I had encountered so … Continue reading Succeed I will …

Time to decode

“What do these symbols mean?” “There are three basic principles of communicating information that I know –letters and words exert a pull on the other, choices are gradually narrowed down to end speculation, and the final elimination of other alternatives.” “What is your final message?” “Words have become redundant. It is possible to communicate through … Continue reading Time to decode

Not 50 yet!

“Damn me! I turned forty-nine today. Half a century next year…..” “What’s your grouse?” “I don’t know what’s happening in my life.” “Get a handle on it.” “Like what?” “Health comes first. Be regular in your fitness routines. Then, your retirement plans….” “Who wants to retire?” “No? Then, better put yourself out there, and let … Continue reading Not 50 yet!

A brave, new world

My brother looked through an opening in the rocks, into the wide, blue expanse and called out, “Look, Henry! What is that space called?” “It is where the Sun and Stars share their home with the birds and Gods. The sky allows a peek into the world.” “Why can’t we get there?” “Wait till we … Continue reading A brave, new world

Rust on Time

The gate was carefully painted in shades of rust and blue, and then, scrubbed with sandpaper. It looked like what it did ten years ago. One of us had a few snapshots of the house. Pa was being released from the mental hospital today. He had cracked up, when he could not pay the mortgage, … Continue reading Rust on Time

Round the Bend

The old man was reminiscing, “I travelled by train all year for my work, so that I could fly your mother to a holiday spot she fancied every year. I researched all year to find the best place that I could afford, and lied to my boss to manage leave. Those vacations were the stuff … Continue reading Round the Bend

The Festival

I had looked forward to retirement, but honestly, the empty nest hurts a bit. I wait for the annual visit of my grandchildren, when we have a ‘Paper Boat Festival’, akin to the Kite Festival in Gujarat, and creativity in making a boat is rewarded. I deliberately lose every contest, so that they come back … Continue reading The Festival

Pyramids

‘Do you remember when we lived down there?’ ‘Not really it was too long ago.’ ‘Then you’re lucky.’ “What is that memory which pains you?” “It is embalmed and bandaged, and preserved in a pyramid.” “Why does that pain you?” “You and I were sworn enemies, and you lie next to me.” (52 words)   … Continue reading Pyramids