By Riley Odell
Empty space surrounds him. Passerby give him a wide berth. He is haggard and disheveled, his clothes tattered and stained. He wears a dog tag necklace and is missing his right arm. His cardboard sign reads, Please help.
Pearl Street’s shops and brick walkways are immaculate. Delicious smells waft from restaurants and bakeries. Children play near statues and fountains.
“Anything. Anyone,” the man pleads.
In response: Nothing; no one.
An emaciated cat limps from a nearby alley. People gather, drawn by the animal’s mewling. “How awful,” they say. Some stoop to pet the cat and feed it portions of their leftovers.
Very thoughtful, Riley.
Great piece.
A great read that highlights how weirdly, some people are more sympathetic towards animals rather than humans (disclosure: I love cats, so was happy this one was fed!). Very thought provoking!
A great story, perfectly told in just 101 words.
Great story.
Good read… well done… the imagery is vivid and highlights a sad fact…
A powerful social commentary in 101 words!
This paints the stark reality of life for many people.
Alas, horrifyingly true.
Social comment in so few words… congratulations.
So very true.
Sickeningly real.
People are an enigma.