If you’re in the mood for a little fiction, you may want to check out the new Short Stories page on my website. My short-short story, Zen and the Art of Picture Hanging, is the first installment. By the way, it’s not a mystery story.
I wakened one morning this past July with this story almost fully written in my mind. I’d been wanting to write some fast fiction. I’d also recently been researching manga, wondering what it was, and had come across an online source of Japanese Ukiyo-e woodblock prints, which included Hokusai’s Blind Men Examining An Elephant. I’d read one version of the parable it illustrates before, so the subject of the artwork stood out for me. (Two more tidbits can be found here and here.) After my morning inspiration, a little research easily filled in the blanks, and I had this lighthearted story of just under 980 words.
Nice dialogue. And I’m impressed such a rounded out story could be so short!
Comment by seadragon — 11/13/2004 @ 12:25 am
Wow, thanks for that story! I enjoyed it very much.
Comment by Mark — 11/13/2004 @ 6:27 am
Enjoyed the story. And glad you enjoyed the meatloaf on my blog!
Comment by Ellen — 11/14/2004 @ 3:04 pm
You are truly a talented writer! I struggle with creative writing and intensly admire those who have a knack for it. =)
Comment by Sharon — 11/17/2004 @ 12:29 pm
You’re all very kind with your comments. I’m happy you enjoyed the story. Thank you.
Barbara
Comment by Barbara — 11/17/2004 @ 3:14 pm