100 Words With a Twist

I recently wrote a piece for a contest, and then never got round to submitting it. The story had to be 100 words; no more, no less and it had to have a bit of a twist. Here’s my feeble attempt. What do you think?

mahatma-gandhi-natural-paintingThe verdant expanse of lawn was quickly filling with people hoping for a glimpse of the great man. Nathuram strode purposely through the crowd, his features set in an expression of determination. The old man, supported by his daughter and a pupil, walked unsteadily toward the throng. Nathuram clasped his hands together in supplication and knelt at the old man’s feet. The daughter attempted to push him away, “Brother, Bapu is already late for prayers”. As he rose, a pistol appeared in his hand. A scream pierced the warm, summer air. From beneath his dhoti, Gandhi’s bullet found Nathuram’s heart.

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About Ol' Big Jim

Jim L. Wright is a storyteller with a lifetime of experiences as colorful as the characters he creates. Born and raised in Piedmont, Alabama, Jim’s connection to the land, history, and people of the region runs deep. His debut novel New Yesterdays is set in his hometown, where he grew up listening to stories of the past—stories that sparked his imagination and curiosity for history. Today, Jim lives in Leeds, Alabama, with his husband Zeek, a tour operator who shares his passion for adventure and discovery. Known affectionately as “Ol’ Big Jim,” he has had a diverse career that includes time as a storekeeper, an embalmer, a hospital orderly, and a medical coder. There are even whispers—unconfirmed, of course—that he once played piano in a house of ill repute. No matter the job, one thing has remained constant: Jim is a teller of tales. His stories—sometimes humorous, sometimes thought-provoking—are often inspired by his unique life experiences. Many of these tales can be found on his popular blog, Ol’ Big Jim, where he continues to share his musings with a loyal readership. Jim’s adventures have taken him far beyond Alabama. For seven years, he lived in Amman, Jordan, the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. His time there, spent in smoky coffee shops, enjoying a hookah and a cup of tea while scribbling in his ever-present notebook, deeply influenced his worldview and his writing. When Jim isn’t writing, he’s thinking about writing. His stories, whether tall tales from his past or imaginative reimagining is of historical events should read from his past or imaginative reimaginings of historical events, reflect a life lived fully and authentically. With New Yesterdays, Jim brings readers a rich tapestry of history, fantasy, and human connection. Visit his blog at www.olbigjim.com to read more of his stories, or follow him on social media to keep up with his latest musings and projects, one of which is a series that follows Bonita McCauley, an amateur detective who gets into some very sticky situations. His book, New Yesterdays, can be found at Amazon US, Amazon UK, Smashwords, and Barnes and Noble.
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6 Responses to 100 Words With a Twist

  1. I think you should have entered the competition. Nice twist

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    • Ol' Big Jim's avatar Ol' Big Jim says:

      I’m sorry I didn’t. Honestly, it was some time in the future and I wrote the story and put it on my desktop “so I wouldn’t forget” to keep an eye on the calendar. You know the rest of the story. Thanks for coming by, David, it’s always good to hear from you!

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Kathy Woods's avatar Kathy Woods says:

    Oooh, you’ll be sent to Naraka for that but I love it.

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    • Ol' Big Jim's avatar Ol' Big Jim says:

      You’re probably right, but I’m thinking a change of scenery might be a good idea. After all, Naraka isn’t permanent is it? Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a few words, Kathy, and don’t be a stranger!

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  3. jaysquires's avatar jaysquires says:

    Jim, I’ve been having fun tinkering through your website. First of all, I had no idea you live in Jordan. What a life you lead. Then I went right away to the 100 word story. You amaze me, my friend. Imagine: Gandhi as a murderer! Good stuff. Finally, your bio and my only question: were you an embalmer (Oh, I can’t go back without losing this!) after your stint in the hospital … or during. And were you paid a flat rate per body? Or hourly. Hmmmmmm? Bless you my good friend.

    Jay

    Liked by 1 person

    • Ol' Big Jim's avatar Ol' Big Jim says:

      I worked as an embalmer on several occasions both before and after hospitals. As I recall, my pay rate was generally hourly. Thanks so much for stopping by, Jay! Hope to see you more!

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What did you think of this tall tale? Let me know in the comments section; I'd love to hear from you!