The Deed of a Friend

Summary

Will Robinson is betrayed and killed by his friend under the guise of safety during a moonlit night in a remote valley.

Abstract

In "The Deed of a Friend," we are presented with a chilling tale of betrayal. The narrative unfolds as Will Robinson, trusting in the assurances of his friend John, finds himself in a remote valley under the deceptive tranquility of a moonlit sky. The story reaches its tragic climax when Will, surrounded by armed men, realizes too late the treachery of his friend, leading to his untimely demise. This haibun is accompanied by a haiku that reflects the shocking contrast between the actions of enemies and the unexpected betrayal by a friend.

Opinions

The narrative conveys a sense of irony in the stark contrast between the perceived safety promised by John and the deadly trap that awaits Will.
The haiku serves to underscore the emotional impact of the betrayal, suggesting that even those we consider adversaries might hesitate to act with such duplicity.
The use of a haibun form, with its blend of prose and haiku, effectively captures the suddenness of the event and the profound reflection it provokes about trust and deception.

A Haibun

It was a dead silence of moonlit post-midnight. Will Robinson was cautiously stepping forward on the dried pasture in the remote valley. He recollected John’s departing words last week at the airport and felt safe and sound. He could never imagine what was waiting ahead for him. No sooner did he reach in the corner of the pasture than he was surrounded from all sides by the men wielding lethal weapons. Hardly had he realized his friend’s deceit when he fell down dead on the ground.

even enemies

embarrassed after seeing

the deed of a friend

A Haibun may record a scene, or a special moment, in a highly descriptive and objective manner or may occupy a wholly fictional or dream-like space. The accompanying Haiku may have a direct or subtle relationship with the prose and encompass or hint at the gist what is recorded in the prose sections.