Flash Fiction for Aspiring Writers
A girl sits cross-legged on the grass. In her hand, a flickering candle. 'All you need is love' she whispers. One by one the village folk join her. 'All you need is love' they sing.
Somewhere in Russia, a devushka wanders into a square clutching a candle. Minutes later the square is filled with people singing. 'Vvse, chto tebe nuzhno - eto lyubov'. All you need is love.
Across the Latin world, joyful crowds gather. ‘Todo lo que necesitas es amor’ they sing as golden flames dance to the tune.
Across Africa, Asia and the Middle East people join in song. The world is illuminated by candles, brightened by song. To the east, south, north, and the farthest west they sing.
In war-torn countries, they lay down their arms and pick up candles. Sworn enemies sing together. 'Kl ma tahtaj 'iilayh hu alhabu'. Suddenly the world is a happy place, we sing as one. All you need is love.
Then all is quiet. A girl sits alone on the grass. ‘Love is all we need' she whispers…..
Word count 176
My story was inspired by this week's picture which has kindly been provided by Elaine Farrington Johnson.
Again, as with others, thank you for renewing my hope. I write horror, so mine is not so...um..pleasant. All stories have a place. Yours felt, good.
ReplyDeleteScott
I normally dismiss my first thought on the basis that most of us will go down the same path, but today I joined in. I have just read yours, and whilst it's not 'pleasant' it does carry a timely message.
DeleteThis was beautiful, Keith. A real positive write. Thank you for that.
ReplyDeleteThat's most kind of you Varad.
DeleteSuch a nice thought. Maybe one day...
ReplyDelete...not in our lifetimes I fear. Thanks Iain
DeleteHi Keith - the words do spread and we all do need love and each other to live in peace ... lovely story - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Hilary.
DeleteThat's such a positive write. Left me with warm hopes for humanity after reading it. Nicely done
ReplyDeleteRight now, hope is all we have. Thanks Lavanya.
DeleteWe can only hope those who are spreading hate will get this message soon.
ReplyDeleteWhen will they realise they have nothing to gain? Thanks mimi
DeleteAmazing writing as always. I like your take on the prompt
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words Joy.
DeleteIn my particular point of view, we will all have peace someday, but it won't be easy and yes, it will get worse before it gets better.
ReplyDeleteI'm not hopeful of a solution in my lifetime, I only pray things will improve for future generations. Cheers James
DeleteKeith, of everything I’ve ever read that you’ve written, and you write good stuff, this is hands down the best. Thank you for writing it this week.
ReplyDeleteI can't thank you enough for your comment. It makes all the hours spent at my computer worthwhile. Thank you so much
DeleteAmen!
ReplyDeleteIndeed. Thanks YS
DeleteWonderful story Keith! I love how it starts with one girl then encompasses the whole world joining into a "Love" song. Great story and so true!
ReplyDeleteThanks PJ, I'm so pleased you liked it.
DeleteThis is so full of hope in the otherwise bleak atmosphere. Hope all war hungry hands lay down their arms and light a candle . Thanks Keith for the lovely story.
ReplyDeletehttps://ideasolsi65.blogspot.in/2017/10/shielded.html
It would be wonderful. We can only hope. Thank you Kalpana
DeleteThat is a profound and powerful message Keith- hope we see this someday in reality.
ReplyDeleteThat's all we can do - live in hope. Thanks Akshata
DeleteBeautiful story, Keith. It's a one world and restoring peace and love will have to be a united endeavour.
ReplyDeleteIt's a tall order but who knows? One day maybe. Tanks moon
Deleteoh really love this. Wouldn't that be wonderful I love how you translated it in many languages and love your poetic language "golden flames dance to the tone" great
ReplyDeleteThat's much appreciated Marja, thank yoou
DeleteWell said!
ReplyDeleteThanks Gregory
DeleteThis is hopeful and beautiful, Keith. If only it could be started by one little girl singing.
ReplyDeleteIndeed. Thank you Sascha.
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