Friday, July 27, 2007

Entry #19

Entry #19
Hide and Seek
by Vesper


I’m hiding.

I burrowed in the warm moss, covered myself with drying leaves and branches. No barking yet, only the quiet hum of the forest. The castle’s in a far-off world.

Mother’s visiting again, with all her pomp, her smells of vervain and lavender, her syrupy voice.

I had to flee, even knowing that Nanny would chastise me if they brought me back. Better the whipping, than the ordeal of Mother’s false concern. I cringe at the memory of her silky fingers, lifting my chin to examine my crooked face; of cold tears rolling on her rosy cheeks – perfect crystals on exquisite porcelain; of her disgusting pity, suffocating, menacing.

Last time she visited, she and Nanny shared again those dreadful whispers about the asylum.

I’m older now and won’t be fooled by the contorted dolls they gave me anymore, by the hunchback servants, playing a tragicomedy for the hideous dwarf that I am. I know what that place is. I’d rather run away than let them lock me there.

Only Sara knows about this glade. She has to get my message. I can subsist several days here, hoping they’ll give up in the end. That, annoyed, she’ll return to her perfect world. That I’ll depart.

My secret friend, the circus girl, will come to take me to her mates as we’ve agreed, and if she’s late, no matter; the earth is warm, the sunshine filtering through the soft leaves, soothing. I’ll sleep the wait away, dream with the trees.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Very nice - again, I'd like to see more done with this. A longer story, or even a novel.

Chris Eldin said...

Clever idea. I really liked this, the second sentence onwards. Thought the first sentence could be spruced up. Very nice writing!

Hoodie said...

This is beautifully written. Your descriptions are exquisite.

A real stand-out.

SzélsőFa said...

nicely flowing narrative - the story itself might deserve a bigger environment (= a longer version)...?

Jeff said...

A unique take on the photo. Good description and flow.

Anonymous said...

as always, you write very well here, Vesper!

Unknown said...

Beautifully written, powerful voice and story. Excellent descriptive prose.

Anonymous said...

I really like this - a well-rounded piece and a strong character voice.

Anonymous said...

Strong language and good character development. Well written.