Behind the Net Curtains
photo prompt by Jean L Hays…
I have been out hunting for some luxuries. An apple came my way. I should return to the bothy, but I want to check the bins in the village. I found rich pickings yesterday, some discarded fish and chips.
Satisfied, I return home. I risk a small fire to heat water. My old bones would relish a little tea, but hot water and mint will do. When the candle stub gutters in the draft and dies, I think of sleep. Tomorrow I might visit the public washhouse for a bath. Those old nets glitter in the moonlight. Beautiful.
This Post Has 27 Comments
Loved this, Michael
A lovely little snippet of his life.
Thank you, so pleased to read your feedback.
Making do and getting through. He seems content with his lot, and able to find beauty in a harsh world.
Thank you Iain, observing the world is the secret to his contentment and so survival.
This is a poem, Michael. Lovely
Thanking you for such a kind comment Neil,
Very nicely done, Michael. Incidentally, every time I see that photo of you working on your computer I marvel at your spine’s ability to cope with that posture. 🙂 Mine wouldn’t.
The human spine is an amazing piece of art but it has its faults. Mine’s like a well worn spade or camera, treasured yet troublesome. No rock climbing or bungee jumps for me these days. Sandra it is good these days to enjoy the finer things like photography and gardening.
Contented and wanting nothing more. Delightful Michael
Click to read my FriFic tale
I was pleased with how this story turn out, as I struggled to get going out of the starting blocks. Thank you Keith,
Dear Michael,
You’ve told us so much about this old man in few words by sharing it from his perspective. Well done.
Shalom,
Rochelle
Thank you Rochelle, I was pleased to read your feedback, as I struggled get off the starting blocks this week.
A wonderful peek into a lonely person’s life. I love the final line.
Thank Alicia, I have observed that finding beauty in simple things helps make a difficult day understandable.
You’ve written a good story, Michael, that makes me realise how privileged I am. Your detailed description of his pleasures and comforts gives your story the ring of truth.
I think that to find beauty in ones surroundings helps in any difficult time. However when I look at war torn places like Syria I wonder how I would cope if I was living in such places. I am grateful for your candor.
This is one of the most mood-driven pieces of yours that I can remember. Lots of atmosphere. Your MC is so likeable just because he’s content.
It was lovely to read your comment, as I did struggle to get out of the starting blocks with this story.
i love this bird story. well done.
Sometimes a difficult picture, inspires, thankfully that happened this time.
Beautifully written, Imaginative too. I really like your meaningful but economic phrases i.e. he “risks” a fire. Excellent.
Sometimes what I see as a difficult picture prompt inspires. I did struggle to get writing this week. So I am very grateful for your feedback.
Beautiful writing, Michael. Old people should not live in such poverty, but his contentment with the little things and love of beauty makes him so endearing.
So pleased to read your feedback, thank you.
Such a wonderfully descriptive piece.
Thank you Sarah, It amazes me how resilient the human spirit can be.