the whimper of the last firecrackercuts through sleepy windowsas tired revellers go to bed A hazy smog challenges visionwhat’s coming next-appreciation for hospitalityinsufficient to last a seasonor credit card debt? I check the heatingtear off dry-cleaning labelsfrom last year’s laundry-The wedding season startsI need a warm wardrobe readyto look my bestwith well-moisturised skinand a colourful … Continue reading It is smoky outside
Loops offer reconciliation with established patterns and estranged elements. They sat on the picnic table to share a packed lunch, and looked into each other’s eyes before they solemnised the bond. Unfortunately, they could never see eye to eye on anything after that. Tangents are invitations to take off somewhere in the unknown; they attract … Continue reading Loops and Tangents
“Arches in architecture always fascinate me – under a bridge, on doorways or elsewhere. At another level, the arc tempts me to complete the circle and let people jump in”. “Passing through an arch brings good luck”, chimes in my mother as the temple bells ring. “Then why do you pray for good luck after … Continue reading Arches
Romantic love toweringover journeysit stands tall Familial love navigatetwisted pathwaysto accept Self-love buildstrong foundationslife meets love Unrequited love Cool-not everyoneIs born lucky Enduring/timeless love lightawaits youend of tunnels Friday Fictioneers W3 Prompt #179
I reprimand someone for carelessly unmuting themselves during an online training session. Deep down, I’m grateful for the sounds of music that streamed in, altering our states of consciousness. Frowns in open windows change to smiles, but disappear as quick as the sun between heavy showers. He switches on the camera to apologise and I … Continue reading Work-Life
Death parted the two topmost talents in the music industry, not divorce. She raised a hue and cry when she was barred from accessing his bank lockers and other assets by his children from a previous marriage. She was drunk and particularly vocal that evening, “My voice complemented his music well, but I wish we … Continue reading Un-musical
The journalist always mocked a candle march. It seemed impotent, especially when the crowds were unable to prevent a crime. Of what use is indignation without an effort? Tonight was different. Tonight, shadows crept out of crevices in floors and walls. Stars dropped from the sky to hold a candle against darkness. A noose hanging … Continue reading Justice
The bright yellow graphics painted on the door do little to alleviate the overwhelming feeling of being dwarfed by the multitude of powers that have her back. She feels hemmed in with the pressure, though viewers look upon her quaintness with amusement. She is the woman who won over gold-plated hearts with the warmth and … Continue reading Choked
My mother told me about pots of gold encased in walls, at her ancestral home in the village. There was an old aunt who had entered the house young as a child bride, and witnessed all the hush-hush activity, perched on her mother-in-law’s hip. She was dead now, and the tragedy was a belief that … Continue reading Secrets
“How about a cup of coffee in Sundance Café?” He asked after the completion of a gruelling college project. What started as a kind gesture from a classmate rolled over into the darkest chapter of her life. He introduced her to friends who, despite their polished appearance, were involved in nefarious activities. Her swift entry … Continue reading Sundance Cafe
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