At the rim of the spaceship there’s a ladder and a rail. I don’t understand why because they won’t let us go outside. I don’t understand why because the spacemen went outside. They got to walk on the moon. We bought first class and we are stuck inside all day and night. It’s not good to be confined without fresh air. I mention this to Dad who just laughs and pats my knee. Well it isn’t. I know that for a fact. But Dad just reads his newspaper and chews gum. Every few hours a new piece of gum. Have some gum he tells me. I frown and look away. Gum gives me headaches. But he doesn’t know that. He’s just the Dad. My mom knows that but she stayed behind. She said she’d take her chances. |
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Gum by Susan Tepper
Filed under Susan Tepper
Hmmmmm… take her chances? Seems somewhat ominous but I still thought it funny!
thanks, gany, but Ihonestly have no idea what this story is about..
Just awesome, Susan. That last line answers the big question. Superbly written!
I wish I knew what the big question was, Susan, I seem to be blinded to this story, but thanks for your comment! At least I must be on the right track– the right spaceship.
quirky and mysterious. nice, susan!
Len it is just as mysterious to me. Too much Twilight Zone Marathon?? ha ha! thanks Len!
great story, so much written in the space(s) of the writing.
Alex I’m so glad you like this story!
Love the quickness with which this gets the job done. Everything perfectly suited to state the case. I’m a big fan of beautiful sentences, too. Nice.
Darryl, thanks so much, those are lovely compliments!
The line about mom taking her chances — sucker punch. You always have this way of cross-cutting the emotion at the end. Peace…
Linda, I don’t know wtf I’m doing half the time, but I so much appreciate yours and the others positive comments!
Well done! I like the juxtaposition: gum – spaceship! Sticks in the mind… seriously original. Thanks.
Stella, seriously original is very nice, thanks so much!
Love the ending how the idea of gum holding them together resonated after I’d finished reading. Great story.
John, I’m glad this story “stuck” with you, gum or otherwise, thanks!!
Really enjoyed this little, but BIG story, Susan! :-)
Alexandra, I’m so glad you like this little/big story! thank you!
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