“Would you like to look at these books before I turn them over to a junk dealer?” Uncle was kind enough to ask when I visited him last. The so-called junk, a term that didn't sit well with me, belonged to my grandfather. I’d scanned through those books a couple of years ago, each holding … Continue reading Alternatives
The township is divided into overpopulated sections with defined and guarded boundaries that are not geographical. The inhabitants, driven by a deep sense of insecurity, are suspicious of each other’s intent and fiercely guard their women and children from anticipated abductions. Despite the challenges, leaders tirelessly promote unity in diversity on international platforms. They showcase … Continue reading I see, but don’t see
“Don’t miss the last train at 1.30 am. We’ll be waiting for you.” The train rolled in a little late, and only one door opened. He was the only passenger to board the train. The names of stations on the display panel were strange. “The last train goes to Churchgate. I don’t see the name … Continue reading The Last Train
“How did you get seduced by a spy?” His boss’s tone was harsh. “I didn’t – instead, I got her to tell me the story of her father, who was a double spy, and is perhaps languishing in a jail somewhere - her voice quivered as she lay wrapped in the lace bedspread made out … Continue reading Twist in the Tale
"Retirement has brought me back to card games and books, but the companions are missing." "Why do you need a companion to read?" "The most enjoyable part of reading is the book and the different perspectives. These diverse viewpoints often open my eyes to new ideas and enrich the reading experience." "Join a book club. … Continue reading Update your Version
Vulnerability draws the manipulator, but he baulks at the idea of being manipulated. This monstrosity, which appeared to lie belly up, is ready to speed away at a moment’s notice, with winking tail lamps laughing at the discomfiture of others. And no, Laura is not at the wheel, but he wonders why the thought of … Continue reading Discomfiture
Why should I believe what you say?” “Because you have no other option but to believe.” “Falling in line and believing are different things. I can do something because there is no option, but I will always know you are being dishonest”. “Who cares? Outliers cannot label others as liars. All those who stand to … Continue reading The Lever
A woman’s silhouette, her features obscured by the darkness, moved outside the window – her presence impossible, for she had died ten years ago. He sat up in bed, disturbed by this strangely unwarranted intrusion. He looked around for unusual signals, but there were none. Yet, he could not gather the courage to get up … Continue reading Intrusion
“One or more terrorists are still hiding somewhere.” “How can you say that?” “They abandoned the rocks after the full-fledged army attack, but two rocks are missing from this box. I’d counted all.” For once, the Captain believed him. “Take your positions, quick”, he barked. Silence. There was no sound of gunfire from anywhere. “Look … Continue reading War and Peace
“Man cannot replicate or compete with nature”. “Mankind often overpowers nature, for both good and bad.” “I don’t see any good in what you say”. Veronica smiled. She could never win over her sister Valerie with logic. Yet, they relied on each other for emotional support. “Val, look at it this way. I never learnt … Continue reading Two sides of a Coin
Creative Experiments and More 