The Shadow

Why did I take so long to realise that the entity, a metaphorical representation of my inner struggles and fears, guiding and driving me through the convoluted paths was only a shadow? I presumed it was real and knew a lot more than me. It's a revelation that what I thought was real and knowledgeable … Continue reading The Shadow

Reena’s Xploration Challenge#362

Writing Prompts

Welcome back! PROMPT #362 I found some striking photographs that won the Best Abstract Photos for 2024. Here are three of those.  You may choose anyone to base your piece on. If you prefer more than one, write separate pieces and blogs on each so that the uniqueness of the theme is retained. Please don’t … Continue reading Reena’s Xploration Challenge#362

The Body Machine

Somebody rushes in with a form to be filled as my mother’s body is wheeled into a mortuary, “What was the cause of death?” I am quick to respond, “Organ failure.” Having heard countless harrowing tales of organ trade and the exploitation of the deceased for financial gain, the issue hits close to home. The … Continue reading The Body Machine

Underground

Flash Fiction

The soil spread the message for survival, “Only those who follow the rules of the game will survive.” A fear psychosis grips some as they struggle to find the colour of their roots. Attired in different shades of light, some trees know it’s only an illusion for powers that be that they are on the … Continue reading Underground

Legacy

We were in an odd moment of silence, not knowing what to say. The sun was about to set, and the dark shadows of night clouded the horizon. “Does your brother smoke and drink?” “I’m not sure. I’ve not seen him do it at home,” I stuttered at the unexpected nature of the question. There … Continue reading Legacy

Finding oneself

Maya packed his belongings with sadness and resolve in the dim light of their shared apartment. "Let’s part ways in style," she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil. She handed him a neatly folded shirt, symbolising the life they had tried to build together. He looked at her, eyes pleading, but she had decided. … Continue reading Finding oneself

Reena’s Xploration Challenge #361

Writing Prompts

Welcome to 2025! The RXC banner has got a new look going by the majority vote. I hope you all had a great time with family and friends and are now settling into regular routines. PROMPT #361 I start the year with a translated couplet of Mirza Ghalib. Original couplet  naqsh faryaadii hai kis kii … Continue reading Reena’s Xploration Challenge #361

Shades of Truth

Stroke by stroke, she painted a dream.  It took ages of self-discovery to complete the picture. It featured the hues of her soul. Mixing colours on the palette took considerable effort to create the right shade. The tints of experience, dreams and space for herself turned out to be a striking combination. It was an … Continue reading Shades of Truth

Unveiled

The chairs are waiting for the hosts. Guests whisper, eyes fixed on the grand staircase. The couple was supposed to descend in style under a shower of confetti, a vision of elegance and love. But alas, it does not happen. The clock ticks and murmurs grow louder. Suddenly, a message arrives: "We’ve split.” And then, … Continue reading Unveiled

Being Smart

“The stock price has sunk to Rs.5/- per share”, Aryaman screamed in shock while checking the share price of a company on the verge of bankruptcy. Just before the National Companies Law Tribunal could officially declare them bankrupt, a saviour appeared to repay the debt, and the stock prices started surging again. “But why didn’t … Continue reading Being Smart