Friday Fictioneers is a weekly challenge set by Rochelle Wisoff Fields to write a 100-word story in response to a photo prompt. You can find other stories here.
Click here to hear the author read his words:
Shadows
Lingering in the shadows.
That’s where I feel most comfortable.
No, safer, I think I mean.
I find bright lights disconcerting.
They make me feel exposed, naked, vulnerable.
Funny thing is, I don’t have much to hide.
I’m not a bad person, although I admit to the occasional dark thought.
And, although thoughts aren’t a crime, at least not yet, I never share them.
Or my reminiscences.
My past is my past, of no concern to anyone else.
If I do choose to stumble through memories, it’s when I’m alone.
I’m a private person.
With memories lingering in the shadows.
As do we all, some darker than others.
And I always considered you a ray of sunshine, Dawn!
🙂
Lovely and the music was a perfect match.
Thanks, Nancy, glad you enjoyed
Love this – the stream of consciousness style works beautifully, the line ‘although thoughts aren’t a crime, at least not yet’ adds a subtle, dystopian edge, hinting at personal anxiety but the piece comes full circle with ‘lingering’ sitting in this quiet space 🙌
Thank you, Ange, I’m happy you enjoyed this.
It is the fear of our own shadows that keep us subdued.
Hmm, interesting if depressing thought, James
An eternal introvert. Not something I’d expect you to be!
I’m probably quite a few things you wouldn’t expect, old pip!
Hmm, lingering… dark, I’m thinking – yes?
You’re thinking, Chris?
C’mon!
Thoughts are not a crime… I do wonder what he fantasizes about. You’ve created a melancholy and dark-ish atmosphere.
Laughing.
I found it a melancholy and darkish image!
Leaving private memories right there, in the shadows. Although thoughts aren’t a crime – at least not yet…there is so much to enjoy in just 100 words, well done.
Much appreciated, Fleur
You’re welcome 😊
Great atmospheric piece for this picture. Yes, we all have hidden parts of ourselves that stay in the shadows. Nicely written.
-David
Thanks, Dave, happy it worked for you.
God am I glad I subscribed to the emails.
It happens rarely that I emotionally feel that am this connected to a piece of writing.
I read this over and over again,
Really good.
Thank you, Reelika, this might be the most rewarding comment I’ve ever received.
A beautiful – and mysterious – reflection.
It shows again your skill for saying so much through what’s left unsaid.
And food for thought…
You’re too kind, Jenne. As always.
I really love the last four lines. Expresses my thinking exactly 🙂
I’m always pleased when my words resonate, Linda
“And, although thoughts aren’t a crime, at least not yet.” Yeah, I’ve had that feeling for almost 20 years now.
It’s pretty much there in what used to be The Land of the Free
I say I live under a 7 watt bulb- which is in many ways accurate- but I do choose to share memories…
Then you’re more open and probably more honest than some of us, Jodi
There is more to this character than meets the eye, things he’s not saying, even to himself
You carry a lot of suspicion, Neil!
Dear C.E.
I think most of us have private memories lurking in the shadows. You’ve expressed it well.
Shalom,
Rochelle
Indeed, m’lady. Thank you.