As a response to Crimson’s Creative Challenge, I wrote this.
Click here to hear the writer read his words
Pier Pressure
‘You owe us money, pal.’
In Scotland, when four strangers address you as ‘pal’, you’re often in trouble.
I know I am.
I try to keep the shake out of my voice.
‘How d’you work that out, guys,’ I ask, although I’ve already guessed.
‘We were at your show at the Pavilion tonight, bit of a disaster, eh?’
I’m a singer in a Seventies Revival Tour, I do Bowie.
Ten minutes into tonight’s performance, during my first number, the power failed.
And couldn’t be fixed.
The tickets were pre-sold, so there was no cash for refunds.
‘I’m just a singer,’ I say, knowing it’s utterly futile.
‘You’re a rich rock star, you’re giving us our money back.’
‘I get paid minimum wage by the promoter,’ I plead. ‘I’m broke.’
This is sadly true.
‘Aye, you’re about to be more broke, pal.’
…there’s something wrong, can you hear me, Major Tom?…
I tried to reply/like on your website. No could do. But perhaps I can help you with your singing if you help me with story telling?
I doubt I can contribute much to your talent, dear Lady, and my singing is a lost cause, but I’m happy to collaborate in any way you choose.
That last line nails it. Has me laughing. And I’m sure you’re an excellent Bowie
Glad you enjoyed it, Crispina, I’m starting to get into this challenge!
So happy to hear that. Look forward to hearing more from you
Best call in Ziggy Stardust for a rescue!
Yeah, Liz, because ‘Like some cat from Japan, he could lick ‘em by smiling’!
He could.
Oh no, not the dreaded ‘pal’ – this can’t be good.
You deftly create the atmosphere of this story – I can just see and hear the characters.
And the ‘Major Tom’ finale says everything without saying it.
Loved it.
Aye, ‘pal’ is too often the precursor to a skelp in the gub!
Great story and I love your reading of it 🙌
Thank you, I’m glad you found the reading worthwhile, I’m not always sure it merits the effort.
It is all in the perception- and I think in this case theirs are slightly askew!
I cannae dance, I cannae sing
I cannae dae a bliddy thing!
And I’m broke.