My family and friends have never seen me smile naturally. I do not do it to be deceitful; I just feel pressured to keep up appearances. It is what most people expect from you. It reassures them you are not about to lash out or to suddenly take a bite out of their arm. If … Continue reading Put on a happy face
Short Stories
Fix
The first of the day. I notice the bitterness before the frothy milk or warmth, then sigh ecstatically. My caffeinated blood thins, rushes, and pounds through the rooms in my heart with greater urgency. The rhythmic drumming of a washing machine in mid-cycle fills my ears and a confused comfort comes with the after effect … Continue reading Fix
Maybe it’s the music
I spot you from the door of the bar. You do not notice me just yet, but I busy myself taking you in as I wait to be seated at your table. You are at your favourite spot – by the window because you love to watch the streets, especially at this time. Up against … Continue reading Maybe it’s the music
Morning coffee
Nancy looked around the square from her bar table, at the serenely active locals who strolled down the streets paved with marble and she could not imagine leaving. Their clothes ranged from tailored casual shirts and chinos to flowing satin dresses which seemed more appropriate for an evening out. She admired the freshly cut stalk … Continue reading Morning coffee
Céilí
How long had it been? Well, excluding her sister’s wedding, it had probably been about twenty years. This side of Irish culture she dreaded. It sometimes reminded her of the final day of a wake – a social obligation full of decrepit neighbours and relatives inhaling tea and sandwiches. The well laid out corpse of … Continue reading Céilí
Mother and child
She appeared to me in a dream as if I had walked in and disturbed her meditation, but there was no room of which to speak, and no icon to adore; only she who was seated in a sort of butterfly pose – legs crossed, back straight, shoulders at perfect ease. Her hands however rested … Continue reading Mother and child
Night Voices
While my worries waltz in and out of my life, day to day – I try singing the hours away. For a moment it begins to help, then it grows into something more . . . I try my notes, tuning in to how I make each sound, and draw them together into a phrase. … Continue reading Night Voices
Kites
I cannot remember the last time I had flown a kite. I do recall the rush of a successful take-off when you catch the right wind, precisely when you need it. I remember the thrill and wonder that engulfed me as I watched the kite dancing in mid-air, twirling, swooping, always threatening to dive towards … Continue reading Kites
Ardent Writing 