Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Summer Solstice


Matthew Weems sighed heavily while shifting his weight from one foot to the other. The task before him was a grim one, but it was one that he knew he must face. Rituals such as these were to be taken seriously. His upbringing taught him that. Likewise, his upbringing, in the form of a domineering but well-meaning father, led him to maintain a sense of calm in situations like these. After all, it had to be done, so why lash out? Clearly, others were present who did not share Matthew’s equanimity, their curses filling the air around him.

Life was to be savored, at least in moderate doses, but one must not omit, forget, or otherwise neglect those unpleasant obligations that are always a part of the package. Matthew knew this, not instinctively, but as a learned behavior, the sound of his father’s voice in the back of his head. Others might shirk their responsibilities, but the thought of such a serious misstep made Matthew gag a little. He would do his duty, and it would feel good when he was finished.

“Number 75! Number 75! You are next!”

Matthew jumped at the sound of the loud voice, then looked down at the slip of paper in his left hand.

93. It wouldn’t be much longer now.

Matthew Weems sighed heavily while shifting his weight from one foot to the other.

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Postscript: What the hell was that? Excellent question. The text above is an attempt at Flash Fiction, directed, in particular, to the Three Word Wednesday blog.

4 comments:

Sheilagh Lee said...

A very patient man Ilike his attitude.Wonderful lfash fiction

Unknown said...

Patience. Commitment. A wee bit of resentment and fear. Nicely put together.

Anonymous said...

Standing the whole time? That's going to be hard.

- Alice

Amber said...

Very nicely developed character and it left me very curious!

I am http://mindlovemisery.wordpress.com/

Candice not Amber, my google account is not right