avatarAnna da Silva

Summary

A young man's tragic fate is depicted, inspired by the song "Lisa Sawyer" by Leon Bridges, with the phrase "Branded with the name" serving as the catalyst for the narrative.

Abstract

The narrative "Stolen" unfolds with a dramatic leap into a river, describing the protagonist's plunge and struggle against the current, evoking memories of a happier past by the mangroves. The discovery of his lifeless body, marked by scorched letters on his skin, reveals the harsh reality of his end. This poignant story is a response to the prompt derived from Bridges' song, showcasing the author's ability to weave a powerful tale from a single phrase.

Opinions

  • The author effectively uses the song "Lisa Sawyer" by Leon Bridges as a creative springboard for the story.
  • The phrase "Branded with the name" is integral to the narrative, suggesting themes of identity and loss.
  • Imagery is a strong element in the story, painting vivid pictures of the river, the protagonist's memories, and the grim aftermath of his death.
  • The story is likely to evoke emotional responses, particularly empathy for the protagonist's final moments and the life he once knew.
  • The inclusion of a link to another story, "Unblemished," implies that the author's body of work may contain similar themes or stylistic approaches, inviting readers to explore further.

Stolen

A Friday Fix story

The river at sunset (Anna da Silva)

A lurch. A chance. He leaps.

Plummeting.

Hard chilling splash.

Flailing… failing… floating.

Caressed by waves to memories of fonder shores. Oily-smooth river snaking through mangroves. Chasing his brothers. Mother pounding clothes in the shallows.

They find the body splayed on the sands.

Ridged black letters scorched into chestnut skin.

The prompt was to listen to the song “Lisa Sawyer” by Leon Bridges and then select a word or phrase to inspire a story. I selected “Branded with the name”.

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