I’ve never had an imaginary friend, not even at my loneliest. Continue reading Reflection | Writing: character development
Category Archives: Short stories, character development
On being human and caring…
We’re socialized to pretend we’re not hurt when we care more than others do. It’s called putting up a brave front, being tough. Continue reading On being human and caring…
Mordecai and Lucie
She was born in France to a Jewish couple. He was a Georgian refugee. His papers were marked “apatride,” stateless, in French. She was a convert, originally from the Basque side of the French border. Continue reading Mordecai and Lucie
Short story: Ања
The house had that after-party smell of alcohol and the remnants of a fancy dinner. There were mostly empty glasses everywhere. People had even left unfinished drinks on the bookshelves. Continue reading Short story: Ања
Short story: Eveline’s safety pin
She loved going to the movies early on. Lucky for her, an old family friend happened to own a theater, right on the main shopping thoroughfare, among the jewelers, shoe shops, and French patisseries. Continue reading Short story: Eveline’s safety pin
Daddy’s mementos
It was in the summer of 1995, as I was recuperating from major surgery, that I got the call from Cousin Abbie. In true diplomat fashion, dad always went through intermediaries. “O is in Paris,” said Abbie. “He wants to visit with you in three days.” I explained I’d just had major surgery and wasn’t yet up to driving or caring for a guest. Could he perhaps give me a bit more time? “Not to worry, the embassy will provide a driver. You are able to make his coffee?” Continue reading Daddy’s mementos
Pretending to be normal
Pretending that everything is normal while everything is crashing around you. Continue reading Pretending to be normal
Short Story: The women of my grandfather’s house
My earliest memories are set in the home of my paternal grandfather. Continue reading Short Story: The women of my grandfather’s house
Weekends on the farm
Short Story: Afternoons with Aunt B.
I spent my eleventh summer tagging along with Aunt B. Uncle Bobby was on another of his long absences. He was in the automotive business. When I asked why he was away so much, I was told Uncle Bobby went on extended trips to deliver consignments of cars to the owner’s out of state dealerships. Continue reading Short Story: Afternoons with Aunt B.