For this Challenge, I invite you to write a true or fictional story that describes a deep, emotional moment connected with nature. You are free to choose any natural element you want. Whether it is a tree, pretty flowers in your backyard, bees you meet on a walk, or a combination of elements, anything goes. However, to qualify, your work must be written in the form of a Flashku. This means two things: (“What the heck is a flashku, Cendrine?” I’m glad you asked. An explanation and example are provided below.) A few ground rules: What Is the Flashku? The Flashku is a form of “poetic” fiction that I created in 2021. This short piece of flash fiction (50–100 words) is inspired by and features an image. It contains minimal descriptions and uses seven words borrowed from another piece. The climax should be reached at about 80% through the story (not a strict rule, though), while the ending must contain a positive / inspirational twist or resolution. NB: Credits behind your inspiration, including the photo you use, are mandatory. Here is an example of flashku below: The Leaves She watched the young boy pick up a few brown leaves and put them in his favorite book. “His laughter is always so contagious,” she thought before following him to the bridge. “Mommy,” he shouted. “The geese are leaving!” She had felt lonelier before. “Can we stay longer, mommy?” The echo of his voice felt like a vast sea enfolding her. We can stay as long as you like, honey. As long as you like. Despite the pain and longing in her heart, she knew. She knew that death could not hide him. She had the leaves to prove it. ©2023 Cendrine Marrouat Flashku inspired by Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet (Last chapter: “The Farewell”) NB: The bolded words are those I borrowed from the source text. I would advise you to do the same. That’s it for today. I can’t wait to read your entries! In the meantime, you can still enter the Grains of Sand Challenge here. You can participate for as long as you want!
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