Before
Herman sat back and allowed his mind to wander, looking out on such a boring building with its lifeless windows had taxed his soul these last years. His mind drifted back to what had stood there before the allied blitz had torched the city.
He saw a crooked row of timber framed buildings with their infills of wattle and daub painted in pastel colours, window boxes filled with flowering plants. People populated the image in his mind, Hildegard his mother setting out to care for a pregnant neighbour. His father with his paint brushes. In silence with these images he departed.
This Post Has 32 Comments
You paint such a lovely “before” picture. I can almost hear the voices of the pre-war people going about their days.
That’s a kind comment Alicia, I do love early architecture.
Very descriptive Michael. I could picture this.
Sadly so many streets around the world have been destroyed by war. Thank you,
From the distance of time, it doesn’t matter where this city is and whose lives have been destroyed. It’s always sad. That was a courageous story, Michael
So many streets around the world have been lost to the families who lived on them because of wor, it is so sad. Thank you for your kind comment.
war is hell.
Plaridel, that is so true, thank you for reading my attempts at flash fiction
I, too, could totally see the picture he described… Lovely, though sad
Losing ones home to war is so sad wherever one lives. I am so pleased that this story found favour, Mike
Quite a quiet, calm scene as he lets his mind drift to days gone by before passing. Nice!
So different to the trauma’s of war. I thank you for your feedback which helped me understand how such a story felt to those who read it. Thank you.
Beautifully done. And I love that dog!
I sorry he is staying with me but he thanks you for your kind comments, as I do.
Dear Michael,
Great descriptions. I always learn new words from you…sort of like being an exchange student. Cute dog.
Shalom,
Rochelle
One of the beauty’s of FF is the exchange of ideas and words. I have learned so much from you and the others.
Robbie says ‘cute’ would not his his choice of how he see’s himself. He thinks that smart and loyal suit him better.
good little write today. enjoyed it.
I am so pleased, thank you for commenting.
Very good imagery here. I loved the “crooked row of timber framed buildings.” So much more interesting than straight lines and edges.
They certainly are, i am glad that you enjoyed the story. Mike
The contrast between the two times works very well
It was unintentional, but thank you
It’s still happening now in too many towns and cities around the world.
Very sadly that is so true.
Excellent description; you had me right there in the scene.
Thank you for your kind comment
I could see it all….
Change has to happen, but some times it happens for the wrong reasons. Thank you for commenting.
I cringe when they tell on the news how ancient buildings and artworks thousands of years old have been pulled down and destroyed out of sheer hatred of the way others believe. This type of hatred is malignant and detestable. Good writing, Mike. — Suzanne
I so agree – malignant and evil. Although we cannot keep hold of the past, we should not destroy it. Thank you so much for commenting.
Great descriptions and poignancy Michael
Thank you Michael. I appreciate your comment.