This week I’ve been struggling
with colour, trying – and failing – to get the printed actuality to match the
subtlety of greenish-grey I intended. Yesterday I decided to drop subtlety and and
spent several enjoyable hours playing with
primary shades. Fingers crossed they’ll come out as intended.
And somehow, although on
re-reading there’s no actual mention, Dave
W’s ‘Fixed’ put colours in my mind with sufficient strength for me to
declare him this week’s winner.
And yet again, I thank you for
your contributions, all of which enable me to visit several shades of
brightness.
Words
for next week: caramel Degas seize
Entries
by midnight (GMT) Thursday February14th,
words and winners posted Friday 15th
Usual rules: 100 words maximum
(excluding title) of flash fiction or poetry using all of the three words above
in the genres of horror, fantasy, science fiction or noir. Serialised fiction
is, as always, welcome. All variants and uses of the words and stems are fine.
Feel free to post links to your stories on Twitter or Facebook or whichever
social media you prefer.
Well done on gaining the choice spot of the week Dave. A cleverly constructed story that held me with its imagery and raw emotion. A deserved win.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the kind words! I have been a little busier lately, and haven’t responded to comments, nor made any of my own, but I have enjoyed all the entries this week. Such diversity and talent, I look forward each week to new treasures. In fact, I check several times a day just to see if anything had been added. I love writing and reading on this BLOG, and hope to contribute my share for a long time to come.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear it Dave - and I do know how life keeps impacting on participation.
DeleteDave,
DeleteI missed the last couple of days on here. I just went back and read Fixed. What an intense, well written piece.
Well deserved win, Dave. So well composed that it managed to stand out as a crown jewel among a varied and imaginative assortment of other gems. What a talented group we do have here. It's an honour to have my humble submissions accepted and often enjoyed.
DeleteCongrats Dave! I know how that goes. Some weeks I'm able to get in comments on everything, and others (like last week), the end of my week disappears and I realize it's somehow Saturday. :)
DeleteBrilliant entry last week, Dave, more more and more please!
DeleteUnequivocal Rip-off
ReplyDeleteMy long anticipated visit to Kursaal surpassed my expectations thrice over. Never before had I tasted caramel corn so scrumptious, and so metallic. Never had I seen sights such as these. Mesmerized by the enormity and complexity of it all, I allowed the oddly proportioned little man to seize the souvenir Degas print I’d purchased. His antics had me half thinking it may be part of his act. It was weeks later when I heard of the rare Degas painting that was sold for millions at auction. Upon return to Kursaal, I found a rusted gate and an empty field.
The term ‘rip-off’ in the title refers to the theft in the story and my unabashed use of Patricia’s wonderful and magical setting. Hopefully, she finds it complementary.
DeleteI never can resist reading your sparkling kick-offs to the week, John, even as I tell myself I won't until I've written my offering. This one is special, in several ways.
DeleteThank you for that supreme honour and nod to my little serialization, John. I see you have managed to unearth one of its many idiosyncrasies...in that the Kursaal isn't always in the location one expects it to be. Arby expresses his gratitude and sends assurances that not ALL the ill-gotten gains will be spent on the ladies.
DeleteDave Wilker9 February 2019 at 14:42
DeleteI so enjoy these BON mots you carefully mete out to us!
A fun, outside look into the Kursaal. I enjoyed your use of Degas, and the imagery of the caramel corn. A fun read!
DeleteA very clever look into Patricia's Kursaal, John. The sights within indeed are mesmerizing. Wonderfully done!
DeleteClever cross-over entry, loved it!
DeleteCongratulations, Dave W, on your blue-ribbon entry last week!
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteThe Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries - entry 45
Seizing the moment, Armi backed up and, appearing to trip over his galoshes, faked a faint.
Moloch pounced, and rolling him in a filthy, caramel-stained, mat, snatched him up, laughed crazily and vanished into the shadowy-dark outside.
Atlas roared, and tore the head from the lizard. The stench of shit rose, and a foul smell followed as the body slackened and degassed.
Atlas threw the carcass aside and his deafening bellow echoed through the room. In one movement, he hoisted the hammer back over his broad shoulders, and loped out into the night after Moloch and Armi.
Loves me some ‘Dillos!
DeleteI enjoyed the imagery and quick action of Moloch pouncing on Armi and rolling him up in the mat. I also was suitably disgusted by the poor lizard haha. These characters are always a pleasure to follow!
DeleteYou are always so good at action description - this so smooth and efficient.
DeleteSuch vivid action scenes you weave, complete with a degassing body. Looking forward to Atlas catching up with Moloch.
DeleteFast-moving and action-packed from start to finish! Well done, Terrie!
Deleteepisode 45???? and as good as when it started, Terrie!
DeleteI read and marvelled and then went "Aha! She missed a key word." And then, went back and reread and discovered the most innovative use of a prompt that will probably occur this entire week. Nicely done, Terrie. As always, your 'dillos excel at action...part of which makes this serialization such a delight and the parts are far to many to list in their entirety.
DeleteTHE MEETING
ReplyDeleteI waited outside his studio for hours before he emerged.
“Edgar Degas, right?”
“He eyed me suspiciously then smugly said, “Who’s asking?”
“The father of a girl who posed for you.”
“Oh? Does she have a name?”
“The painting is ‘The Morning Bath’.”
He squinted, rubbed his beard a moment. “Ah, yes… that would be Yvette.”
“No. That would be Yvonne.”
“Of course… Yvonne. A beautiful girl! When I first saw her, a vision seized me. Bright dancing eyes! Smooth caramel skin! Lovely delicate figure I so perfectly captured!”
He paused suddenly, his eyes narrowed. “What about her?”
“She’s pregnant.”
Haha we both used one of the bath paintings! It seems like Degas has a bit of a problem on his hands, and I don't feel sorry for him. Great use of the two Y names.
DeleteLove this a brilliant scene in miniature, set up by the waiting.
DeleteI bet many painters experienced mixed reactions to the use of models. And I also suspect many times, there may have been some hanky-panky. Really enjoyable.
DeleteNice and tight, a kind of behind the scenes story, and one that is a very good read. Thank you.
DeleteI liked thhis one! So cleverly spelled out.
DeleteBrilliantly executed and that almost entirely in dialogue. Seems so typical that the artist would fail to remember the correct name.
DeleteAfter the Bath
ReplyDeleteHe watches me, leg rising from the tepid bathwater, as I step down onto the tiled floor. I flip clear my wet, caramel hair and look back at him, seeing his eyes slid down my tattooed spine and linger on my backside. I reach for my robe, but he seizes it in quick fingers, and folds it over his arm.
“You’re like a Degas painting,” he says, his smile pure honey. “Woman in a bath. You know it?”
“What do you want, Noah.” I turn, and he sees I’ve released my claws.
“I got a job for the wolf.”
Oh, SO well-observed! Love it.
DeleteNice, Zaiure. A perfect combination of seduction and guile. The raised claws were very effective.
DeleteI'd treat this clawed lady with caution... wouldn't push her too far. Strange that you and I focused on the same Degas painting, Zaiure... or is it? A very enjoyable read!
DeleteA tease of a bigger story, one that I would love to see continue!
Deletea snippet or the start of something longer - either way, a delight to read.
DeleteThis simply screams "continuation...continuation." You absolutely cannot leave it there!
DeleteThank you everyone! :)
DeleteDetached
ReplyDeleteThe caramel dish is full once again. The artwork is reminiscent of Degas...ballerinas in flounces of pink, white and blue. A bottle of Blackberry Merlot chills in the refrigerator.
I don't care for sweets and never buy them. I prefer to work in moody oils...dark purples and rich siennas. But the wine is inviting and lingers like ripe fruit on the palate. I indulge even though I am fully aware it will bring about the seizures.
And when I wake, the caramels will be gone and yet more visions of soft-hued danseuses will lines the walls.
Vividly colorful as a Degas painting, Patricia.
DeleteThis evidence of a fertile mind indeed!An such smoothly inserted prompts
DeleteFascinating and richly descriptive. I love the mention of the caramels/sweets at the beginning, and how they're gone at the end. I'm not sure whether to be curious or fearful. :)
DeleteACK...that should read "line" and not "lines." I'd take it down and repost but since there have already been replies, well... Anyway, I aplogise for such a glaring and offensive error.
DeleteThe fact the wine was chilling says the artist knew he needed the seizures to create. Loved the colors and the flavors, effectively moving the story forward.
DeleteI love that his drug of choice is not quite as ugly as what others have used. It also seems that he has some pretty constructive trips. Well crafted, more than just the words, which is something I appreciate.
Deletegently led into mayhem. Good one, Patricia!
DeleteApologies - I missed off the final paragraph of last week's episode (and no-one told me I'd omitted 'flex'), so here it is:
ReplyDelete'I moved nearer. ‘Do the women only flex their muscles for the ravaging of strangers? What have you learned of their hierarchy? Are we in immediate danger or can we stay awhile to heal? Have we horses to effect that?’
Raven briefly laughed.
Tentative [Threshold 235]
‘The women are like women everywhere. Outwardly subservient, in actuality in control. Like that woman always painted in her bath –‘
‘Degas?’
‘Bonnard. Looked like he seized every opportunity; in fact she never left it. Never produced a child either, which is woman’s function –‘
The tactlessness of that, its hypocrisy, he too belatedly registered. Shame-faced, he finished answering my questions.
‘But as for horses, they both survived, though Tosca’s caramel’s a little toasted, and Wishbone’s mane might never be the same.’
I held his eyes. ‘Will we? When you deny me children, but condemn those that won’t provide?’
Sandra, your use of inner strife is so effective here. It seems impossible for this issue to mend, but we'll see what happens. I'm thinking you don't quite know yet yourself, and I look forward to it unfolding.
DeleteThings might be coming to a head here. What might the future bring? I'm anxious to find out.
DeleteI can't get over how clear and full the tale is fleshed with so few well-chosen words. A sign of a great writer's mind, in my opinion.
Deletethere is a clarity and yet - there are murky waters beneath and anything could and probably will happen!!
DeleteLet me begin by saying that when it comes to this serialization, Sandra, it so easily draws the reader into the happenings that it's truly no surprise that a prompt missing word might even enters the mind so it comes as no shock that nobody noticed. I do believe Raven's words may have cut a little too deeply on this occasion and wonder how he intends to atone.
DeleteThank you kindly for your appreciation - have to say the chance for weekly appreciation more than makes up for the lack of top place on the podium, a job which will be harder than ever this week.
DeleteThere is always such a fascinating back and forth between these characters. I'm constantly drawn in. I liked the description of the horses. :)
DeleteKursaal (Episode One Hundred Fifty) - "Noteworthy"
ReplyDeleteDugas and Degas Corviday, Maximillian's cousins, operated their own travelling show. Maximillian seized every opportunity for the pair to feature at the Kursaal.
Arbuthnot and Benny were disgruntled when the show arrived. The former Jester Brother resented Dugas, whose rugged good looks and mahogany complexion outshone even the diminutive Arby when it came to charming the ladies. And Benny took exception to his retinue of adoring lads fawning over Degas' caramel skin and chestnut curls.
Only Lenny Jester welcomed the Corviday Cousins. They provided Lenny with invaluable counsel on how to get one (or more) over on his two brothers.
---------------------------------------------------------
To read the earlier installments (a suggestion only) which led to this point in the tale, please visit:
http://www.novareinna.com/kursaal.html
A link to return to "The Prediction" can be found on the site. Thank you.
---------------------------------------------------------
NOTE: Maximillian Corviday and all three Jester Brothers (Lenny, Benny and Arbuthnot) have all featured in previous episodes. The Corviday Cousins (Dugas and Degas) are new characters.
Sounds like Degas and Dugas are poised to stir things up a bit. That's all we need, more turmoil at the Kursaal. Of course, despite my tone, I mean that very positively.
DeleteI agree, I anticipate much interchange between our opposing characters.
Deletedefinitely some stirring going on here - which will result in... ??
DeleteOoh, goody - yet more mayhem in the offing, and how well you spin these characters.
DeleteFun new characters introduced to the Kursaal! I adore their descriptions and the promise of trouble. :)
DeleteRevelations, chapter and verse
ReplyDeleteMy intention had been good – a Valentine’s Day demonstration of originality - but what I initially read as pleasure was in actuality a thin-spread caramel amusement around a kernel of incredulity. On examining the label she seized the opportunity to lecture. ‘Absinthe? “Flavoured with green anise, and sweet fennel?” No mention of the gall of bitter wormwood! Jesus, Josh, don’t you know it produces hallucinations? Have you never heard it called the Green Fairy? Never seen Degas’ portrait of dreary addicts?’
‘Yes,’ I said, heading for the door, having finally seen a matching green light, ‘She reminded me of you.’
Some people are just unable to be happy. I think we just saw the tipping point for our friend Josh. Good repartee, nicely put together.
DeleteWhat a recipe this was! A feast for the eyes and the imagination. As always, your killer line is just that...a killer!
DeleteWhat a cutting final line! I loved the phrase 'a thin-spread caramel amusement around a kernel of incredulity'. Vivid and delicious!
DeleteI bet that retort got her attention. What an array of flavors, all of which I'd avoid just based on taste, let alone the hallucinatory properties.
ReplyDeleteyes, nice dialogue, saying so much - and that list of ingredients... I am careful of everything since I discovered even a humble decongestant had an ingredient in it used in Ecstasy and the damn things sent me flying every time...
DeleteObservations
ReplyDeleteI often see her at the Gallery. She admires the Impressionists -- Monet, Cézanne, Degas and the like.
I often occupy a nearby table at the Internet café where she sips caramel lattes and nibbles on almond croissants while she checks email.
She often wears a silkscreen tee that bears the message "Carpe Diem" -- seize the day or enjoy the moment.
How I do enjoy watching her enjoy her moments.
you can almost hear the cogs turning, the ones dripping in blood, that is...
DeleteSuch a delicate touch, lightly drawing subtle menace.
DeleteA creepy, menacing piece full of vivid descriptions. I have a hankering for an almond croissant now. :)
DeleteOh, the fine line between a burgeoning love affair from afar, and good old stalking. I wonder what would be the next step. Bravo!
ReplyDeleteI wonder who the stalker here is? Could it be the lady?
ReplyDeleteStop the Week, I Want To Get Off (34)
ReplyDeleteIt’s like trudging through caramel, trying to get things done. Shaun went to the other side of the island (failed trip, the furniture wasn’t good enough) now he’s off sick and here we are, one set of shelves gone and the other waiting to go… I shall seize the chance tomorrow to get some of it done anyway. There’s a stack of pictures on the floor (no Degas among them, I checked) for people to go through, nowhere for them – yet. I await another vision. Meantime, customers are looking more than they did before; it’s going to be good.
I applaud the way you weekly turn so many negatives into a positive tale. Fingers crossed 'good' was how it ended.
DeleteAs Sandra commented, the way you manage to turn negatives into positives week after week is to be applauded but even more than that, how you manage to weave the prompt words into the day-to-day running of your store is nothing less than amazing.
DeleteThings appear to be on the upswing. Even if not, the positive attitude here is encouraging... and charming.
DeleteThere was a hopeful upswing to this, leaving us with the promise of good things to come. I loved the imagery of checking through the pictures on the floor. How amazing would that have been to find a Degas? :)
DeleteThe Mad Italian 93
ReplyDeleteCaramel is a nothing colour, a blending of many other tints and so it seems this week in Parliament is coloured caramel, dull, uninteresting. Degas would have difficulty using this colour. Why hasn’t anyone seized the opportunity to make a name for themselves? Are they all hiding behind party colours (slightly brighter than this boring one) or are they all on a Countdown to Doom calendar? Nothing seems good right now, nothing seems to move, no one has initiative and that in itself is a clear indication of where we are. Nowhere.
A sad commentary, Antonia, but so expertly expressed. The analogy between caramel and Parliament is splendid!
DeleteThere is little worse than stagnation and although I'm not familiar with current events in the Homeland, it would appear everything is at a standstill. And would Leonardo notice this one asks? Of course he would! He is a mad but insightful Italian!
DeleteI loved the use of caramel to describe parliament. A striking comparison.
DeleteCripplegate Junction/Part 176 - Bon Voyage
ReplyDeleteThe Station Master seized Clive Bailey's elbow and propelled him into a First Class carriage with brown leather seats and caramel-coloured Roman blind. It was empty save for Clive's open briefcase containing a print of Degas' "Achille De Gas." The pictured youth in naval cadet uniform might have been a young Station Master.
Clive looked out the window upon a platform devoid of passengers. Deserted with no sign of life. He thought the swish of an orange tail disappeared into the Waiting Room, but couldn't be sure.
There was a disjointed whisper.
"Safe journey, old chap. It was a pleasure."
---------------------------------------------------------
To read the earlier installments (a suggestion only) which led to this point in the tale please visit:
http://www.novareinna.com/cripplegate.html
A link to return to "The Prediction" can be found on the site. Thank you.
----------------------------------------------------------
And another full-scale painting of a fascinating scene; I can picture it all so vividly.
DeleteI missed the earlier piece, so for me I felt something sinister about that final sentence. I am a suspicious, cautious reader, to be sure haha. I loved the vivid description of the carriage. It felt like we were looking at a painting, with the items placed just so.
DeleteChange of focus 314
ReplyDeleteStepping close to Valdeta, Pettinger, urgently, in Khakbethian, ‘Tell me, is this where you want to be?’
Loudly, and in English, ‘Bathroom Yanno? I’ll show you.’
The room a sickly confection of caramel and chocolate, wallpapered with a should-be-banned cultural appropriation of ever-repeating squatting Degas women.
There she seized a cotton towel, began concertina-folding it between nervous fingers. Taking the opportunity to pee, Pettinger asked her, ‘D’you believe you’re in danger, Valdeta?’
‘Not while I’m so good to him in bed.’
He shook himself, zipped, flushed. ‘And you speaking English?’
‘Aleks is having lessons. For when he comes to you.’
A bathroom I probably wouldn't forget! I also loved how Valdeta folded the towel 'concertina-folding it between nervous fingers'. Lovely description.
DeleteSuperb description of the bathroom, Sandra, and of the squatting Degas women as well. Very nice!
ReplyDeleteHas there ever been a more vivid description of a bathroom? I think not. Love the detail of a concertina-folding cotton towel Valdeta. It conveys so much with so little effort. The "squatting Degas women" might be spot-on for a bathroom wallpaper, but not one I'd particularly care to have to look at on a regular basis.
ReplyDeleteThe Adventures of Rosebud, Pirate Princess #167
ReplyDeleteGood Reasons to Worry
Teddy isn’t worried. Why isn’t she worried? I know something bad’s going to happen. They’re going to seize Natasha or caramelize us or degas the air or poison us or something. She told us not to come back, and Rosebud’s injured.
I guess it’s too late now, we’re over the mountains already. Oh dear! The trees are on fire! Oh no!
A scene filled with tension, leaving me to wonder how they'll escape! I enjoyed the string of bad things she thought might happen.
DeleteP A Y B A C K
ReplyDeleteI grabbed his arm as he seized my wife, Karen’s. “Please, let her go” I begged. He looked back with dead eyes. Caramel colored, they gave me no hope. “She's going to die now, Mr. Clark, to pay for her sins. You can watch or you can leave, or you can try to do something about it. But you cannot stop it.” I listened to her screams, but all I could hear was her and her boyfriend’s laughter as I had wept. Mr. DeGas watched me drop my hand. “Oh well, I tried” I said as I walked away, smiling.
A chilling twist from fearful concern to callousness. I'm really curious why Mr. DeGas wants her dead.
Delete