Warm and pleasant, the rays of the sun touched her skin. Closing her eyes, she soaked in the warmth.
It was almost prophetic, this moment. The silky texture of the gown fell around her ankles as she walked up the promenade. Flowers seemed to bloom and bow, out of deference to her strong, silent gait.
Her hands came out of her pockets. The police drew their guns in readiness. Crossing her empty arms, she stood before them and fixed them with a stare that would make them quake.
The crowd raised a cheer at the strength of her peaceful protest.
***
Welcome to The Moving Quill!
For this year’s A to Z Challenge, I’ve taken up the theme of
An Oxymoron rendered in micro-fiction.
Each day’s title will have one half of the oxymoron while the second half will be revealed towards the end of the post.
Follow me as I unravel each tale in exactly 100 words.
Follow me on Facebook or Twitter to keep track of my updates
***
Love how you give twists in every tale 🙂
Ooh! The perfect twist in the tale!
I loved the imagery in this microfiction. In 100 words, I could imagine the entire scene so vividly! ?
The presence of the police came as a surprise. I love how the mood of the piece changed in a moment.
Thank you, Keith! I am so glad you feel that way 🙂 Welcome to the blog.
I love the way the atmosphere gradually changed word after word. Really clever. I must start to visit your site my often.
Wonderful writing once again. And yes peaceful protests have so much power!
One of the best descriptions I’ve read and narration so smooth but the end had the maximum impact on hearts. Brilliant.
This is one of the best oxymorons by far. Loved the suspense building in your post as usual. 🙂
First I thought this was so awesome. So strong, so proud. Then I clicked on the link. My thoughts were confirmed again 🙂
Oh, I remember this image. And this article. It was a powerful, shameful, heartbreaking, hope-giving moment.
I like the way you build up your climax.
impressive as always.
Hail the spirit of peace and its power! Loved your crisp yet vivid narration! Power on!
Dear God, that is one out of the ordinary true story! And your words flow flawlessly as always Shailja.
Love
Natasha
natashamusing
Travel Epiphanies:
Precious Cotton
Excellent picturization! Even the image selection was spot on. Reminded me of an article I read recently about a girl who protested & stood up against racism in her community with a cool smile on her face:)
Celebrating ‘Women & their work’ all April @NamySaysSo Oprah Winfrey
Glad you linked it, wasn’t aware of this incident and had missed seeing this photograph too. Such stoic courage and poise speaks a lot about her conviction. Beautiful oxymoron again, Shailaja.
Thanks Raj. I really wanted to capture the essence of what she embodied 🙂
🙂
Loved the way you described her determination and courage. You cannot intimidate the likes of her.
I had a feeling that this was about that iconic photograph. Didn’t realize it was linked until I saw your comment to Parul.
Aww thanks Sanch 🙂 That’s lovely to hear.
That was the idea 🙂 Glad it worked.
Did you click on the link I’ve highlighted? You’d love it Parul 🙂
Ah the present times oxymoron. I loved the twist and literally held my breath as I thought some assasination is unfolding. Good one!
When the guns came out, I thought she was a killer on her way to surrender 🙂 there sure are twists in your tales 🙂
I like how you set this story up to seem like it was a wedding but it turns out something completely different. Nicely done! I find myself trying to guess what the oxymoron is each day…don’t think I’ve ever managed to guess it correctly!