Monday, August 06, 2007
Lucky Number 5
I changed my original post for today because once again, I took #5 in an online writing contest. We were given a photograph of a dense forest with sunlight coming down in rays off in the distance as our inspiration. (would have posted it, but it won't show up so you can see it here) Every piece is limited to 250 words.
I was genuinely surprised as my little story wrote itself. I'm not much of a re-writer. I lack the discipline to start something knowing how it will turn out. My stories kind of dictate themselves and I scamper furiously to write it all down. I read it, correct grammar and spelling to the best of my ability, and send it off.
I had a lot of fun doing this contest though. It gave me a nice wake up to the summer and the reading was really terrific. There were more than a few that sucked me right in, including our own Mr. Schprock. I really like his darker stuff, but won't put a link up without his permission. (you can find him at the site though and it's worth the trip)
Anyhow, the winners were announced here : Clarity of Night
I was #37, writing under the penname, Ann Ostrander: The Truth
And for those hating to click on links like me, I put the 250 word short story below.
The Truth
by Ann Ostrander
“If it hurts at all, just stop me,” Brian whispered. Even with the thick plaid blanket underneath us, the forest floor felt damp. He fumbled with the condom as I undressed.
We didn’t kiss or touch each other. I wasn’t comfortable with that. Weird, I know. Sex before any of the things my friends did first. Maybe it would come later.
“Are you all right?” Brian asked, positioning himself between my legs. I nodded, wishing I still wore a bra as his eyes darted in that direction.
“If it hurts…” he breathed, while fumbling between my legs, “Make sure to tell me.”
But it didn’t. I felt pressure and his hips pushing against mine. I waited for the pain my mother had told me about with her first time, but there was none. Just another lie to scare me … to keep me ‘pure.’ Mom. I couldn’t think of her now.
I opened my eyes and concentrated on a shaft of light penetrating the canopy. Brian groaned and shook. It’s over. I’m fourteen and it’s happened. He moved his mouth towards mine. I snapped my head to the side.
“Still no kissing, Nessa?” he laughed. I smiled and kept my eyes on the light.
Three weeks later and Mom still doesn’t know. She always said she would, but that wasn’t true either. Every time she asks if I’m still being ‘chaste,’ I tell her, “Mom, I haven’t even made out with a boy yet.” At least I’m telling the truth.
(Personal thank you to Jason Evans ... for all the hard work and a terrific contest.)Labels: writing contest
