Break From Reality. Daily.
This story is by Mary Gould and was part of our 2024 Spring Writing Contest. You can find all the writing contest stories here. “Passed Over” “Always the interim, never the manager.” The words like an irritating tune would not leave my head and the knowledge that Friday afternoon meetings were famous for bombshells…
“Bamboo Walk cottage is haunted.” Allistair Cavendish’s family told him, claiming that is the only reason uncle George left him the property free and clear of any debts. He agreed that the cottage would be the perfect breeding ground for ‘duppy’ stories’— ghost folklore— vital to Jamaica’s culture as reggae to dance hall battles. He smiled at the notion of a ghost community; and wished he could write horror stories. He had not seen any shadows or ghosts; myths about duppies were entertainment when he was a boy.
What did his family know about loneliness and isolation? They were responsible for the isolation he felt every time they questioned his writing ambition.
“Allistair, when are you going to finish that novel?” Cousin Gary asked.
“How long has it been now? Ten years? Better stick to your day job.” His brother Ira teased.
