Because I can’t write poetry …

…  I tried my hand at micro fiction. The path that lead me to it was when my interest in the genre of flash fiction was rekindled recently. Flash fiction or the short short story as it is called is a brisk business – around 1000 words and the job is done. Micro fiction takes this challenge even further – generally up to 200 words will seal the deal. The trick lies in making these limited words shine. It is like preparing a single alluring cupcake from a cup of flour.

Nevertheless, it provided a refreshing change and an exciting opportunity. Reading micro fiction felt like enjoying a small piece of candy instead of devouring a big meal and writing it was a good excuse for not being able to do poetry!

Here is my attempt at micro fiction which was published in an online magazine called ‘6MM – Six Minute Magazine’ that encourages this sharp and focused form. My piece is titled ‘Small Talk’ and is a conversation between a man and a woman in a bar. The man is a dashing fellow and the woman is clearly attracted to him but something is eating him at the moment, something from his dark past …

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                                                                              Small Talk

“I grew up in a rough neighborhood.” He says matter-of-factly, as if expecting this piece of information to be guessed easily by anyone merely glancing towards his clean-shaven, slick-haired, suit-clad self.

“How rough?” ask her glossy red lips, the heady fragrance of his aftershave mingled with the alcohol on his breath making her lean forward expectantly.

 “Have you ever seen a man getting shot?” He takes a slow sip and turns the glass of whiskey around in his hand, admiring the bar lights striking off its crystal-cut body, waiting for an answer, but not from her.

“I have. In the head. And he was my best friend.”

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You can find the magazine issue that my piece appeared in at http://sixminutemagazine.com/issues/Six_Minute_Magazine_Volume2_Issue_2.pdf