Spotlight
“It’s time,” they say. I’m shepherded along a gloomy corridor and pushed through a door, which closes behind me, so no escape there.
Trembling with fear, I try to hide, but a roaming spotlight seeks me out as if tracking down a prison camp fugitive. It fixes on me, inquisition-like, bright, blinding me from seeing the watchers. My throat goes so dry that I fear I will rasp, but I have to tell them what they want to hear.
A deep breath, and I speak: “Two households, both alike in dignity, In fair Verona, where we lay our scene…..”
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleWe have a soft spot for any references to Shakespeare! This story has it all – terror, drama, building to a climax, and then … the glorious opening speech.
Susan, I can’t begin to tell you how much I love this story. I was on the edge of my seat for the first two paragraphs, all sorts of dire situations filling my mind. A political prisoner? Thrown in a dungeon? Awaiting a firing squad? The last paragraph filled me with such admiration and recognition. One of my favorite scenes of all times from one of my favorite movies of all times.… Read more »
Oh, glad it did it for you, Fuji.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleI love it, Susan. I’ll admit I didn’t get it in my first read but when I re-read it again, it makes clearer. I liked it even more, especially your addition to that famous quote. I could feel his fear and trembling on stage while performing. Good job, Susan.
Thanks for the double read!
You’re welcome, Susan. Congratulations.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleA great idea, Susan, and very well executed! Until the last paragraph you managed to keep me wondering where you had taken us and what we were witnessing. And finally the sigh, the relief and the joy when he started to speak.
Pleased it had the intended effect then, Christer.
Nice inrepretation of the prompt Susan. Having been in a similar situation myself, I had a feeling that’s where you were leading.
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To Leave Comments - Please SignIn with GoogleA great story, Susan. I could feel his nervousness, his desperation as the exits are all blocked. And then the relief when he finally finds the words. I say “he” because of all the productions I’ve seen which involve a man in this role. Well-written.