In this series, I will take the Word of the Day from Dictionary.com and craft a short piece of creative writing around it. My goal is to embrace the meaning of the word in some unique way, all the while trying out different styles, rhythms and characterizations. It is as much an exercise in creativity as it is an exploration of grammar. Enjoy!
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By Alex Seise
“There,” said the woman, unfurling a pointy finger in the direction of the garden divider. “Beyond that hedgerow lies the compass, all tied up in the construction of that god-awful wall. Raze the bricks and mortar and you’ll find what you seek.” She rolled her tongue over her toothless gums. The woman was not old, perhaps forty five, but she had no white stones in her jaw.
“Surely there must be an easier way,” moaned Charles, trying to ignore her pink and black maw. He’d spent decades restoring the old garden, and tearing down the structure would not be cheap, nor would it be aesthetically pleasing.
She spun around and looked him in the eyes, her pupils flaring and fiery. “If you didn’t want to hear my words, why did you summon me at all? Raze the wall, or forfeit the tool you want so badly. Your choice, man.” The purple foulard tied tightly around her scalp fluttered in the afternoon breeze. The end flicked in her mouth and, for a brief moment, Charles thought it looked like snake tongue darting between her lips.
He sighed, defeated in spirit and resigned to the unfortunate course that lay ahead. Charles signaled in the direction of the low wall with a single outstretched palm, then looked toward the six strong-armed men surrounding the duo. “Do as she commanded. And gently,” he implored with snooty airs. “I’d hate to lose my heirloom potentillas to your scummy boot soles.”
