Flash Exercise Online Portfolio
THE CHALLENGING STUDENT
[FlashXer] EXERCISE: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2008
As I listen to the media, read the newspapers and check out the web,
I am more and more distressed with the nature of things. I hope
none of you are caught in the squeeze. As for me, I have
little to worry about, I can always go to a VA home, if I have to...
providing I can get in. Some of them, and I've visited a couple,
are almost habitable. I am keeping my fingers crossed that
the right moves are being made: but I am horrified by
what some of the banks seem to be doing. And I wonder, if you
run a business into big trouble, why you should expect a bonus
at all? This is a puzzling world we live in..does anyone have
answers? I doubt it. Years ago, we used to say, it may be a
recession we are in, but if you haven't a job, and have few prospects
it is truly, for you a depression. I've been there, and I can tell
you it is
so. So much for my feelings, please forgive them if they are
counter to yours: but I had to vent a little. Anyway, here's the
prompt, see how you can handle that....
YOU DON'T LEAVE ME MUCH CHOICE, DO YOU?
I'LL DO IT, BUT WITH THE LOUDEST PROTEST POSSIBLE.
Usual rules. 1000 words. In the subject line, please, your name,
the word choice and the story title.
Get to work now...and come up with a good one.
We will all value it.
Irv.
12/10/08 Janine's Choice "The Challenging Student" 261 words
"You don't leave me much choice, do you? I'll do it, but with the loudest possible protest."
"And how are you protesting participation in extra curricular activities today?" said the teacher.
Bang! Bang! Bang! "I'll be in the band, but I only want to play the bass drum."
"Of course you want to play percussion. I would expect nothing else, Harold."
"Well, that's no fun if you already knew I was going to pick it. I'll play the flute instead."
"Now there is a choice I didn't expect. Are you able to make a sound when blowing across a coke bottle?"
"Yeah. So what?"
"That is the same way you play the flute, so you will have no problem. Just don't pass out while practicing."
"What are you talking about, teach? What do you mean pass out?"
"Many beginners blow too hard and become light headed."
"Ah, so the flute is a dangerous instrument. I definitely want it now."
"As you wish. I do want you to look at this as a challenge."
A few weeks later... "Hey teach."
"Yes, Harold?"
"I do get light headed. My arms hurt and the notes come out all funny sounding. Can I go back to the bass drum?"
"I see. The flute is too difficult for you. I understand."
"Never mind. I'll show you I can do it."
A few months later... "Are you ready for the end of year concert, Harold?"
"Yep. I practiced every single day and I can play all of the high notes. My parents hate the flute. It's great."
12/12/08
Janine's Choice "The Challenging Student
I like the clever use of reverse-psychology in this story and the last line
in particular. I tried the flute and could get nothing out of it but
screeches. The clarinet was OK but it meant the sheet music was too far
away for me to read. Guitar was even better - just the letter names of the
chords! ;)
12/12/08
Hi Janine,
Cute story... It sounds so typical of a kid. No Crit. -Rita
12/12/08
Hi Janine,
You nust have been a fly in the wall in my grade school misic class. I think that was me wanting to play an instrument i knew would drive my parents nuts. Cute story. Not CRIT.
Hal
website created by Janine Bouyssounouse.
Last updated 12/12/08