I kneel on the floor of the chapel, packing my mother’s clothing into a suitcase. Black jacket, black dress, print scarf. Lifeless discards all. Then I pick up a pair of patent leather shoes which quiver with energy. I’m startled to realize my mother has worn them just minutes before. She was not brought to this crematorium dead and desiccated. Alive and vibrant, she chose this outfit not to be buried in, but to slip out of at precisely the right moment, offering herself to the oven at the time of her choosing, and leaving this world as she entered: naked.
Naked
By Jessica Needle
An unusual story which I enjoyed reading. Not a wasted word either.
Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad you liked the story.
Being burned over 60% of my body, I can’t imagine anyone doing that voluntarily. But nice story, I like the part about the boots quivering with energy.
I’m sorry to hear that. I hope the story wasn’t triggering. Thank you for the feedback!
Gripping and visually powerful. Having just lost my wife to cancer and her awaiting cremation, it took my breathe away a bit.
My condolences on your loss. I hope you find peace and strength during this challenging time.
This delicious morsel of a story instantly captured me. The gasp i felt at the end….I live for that gasp! Beautifully crafted. Thank you.
Thank you. I’m glad my story was affecting, as that is always the goal.
I was immediately drawn in and there was a faint aroma of the of the discarded objects filling my senses
Wow! I’m glad the imagery was vivid. If I had 202 words, I could animate the other senses as well.
The shoes quivering with energy gave me pause. Loved that line. The subject matter hard for sure but it makes the reader feel something – and that is what it is all about.
I agree. Thank you so much for your comment.
Had to smile at the macabre twist . . . Pure Jessica.
Thank, Lon. You keep smiling and I’ll keep twisting.
Shocking story. It definitely has a punchline. I also liked ‘shoes which quiver with energy” line. Well written.