When words are scarce, they are seldom spent in vain”
[William Shakespeare].
I’ve been reading the book, A Whole New Mind, by Daniel Pink. In it, the author attempts to explain why right-brained people will rule the future. The book came highly recommended, and since I consider myself to be predominantly left-brained, of course I had to evaluate the information Mr. Pink had assembled, and draw my own conclusions.
Well, I have to say that it is a pretty interesting read, and I think his arguments have merit. One component of the book I really enjoy are the exercises provided to help develop creativity. In one such exercise, the reader is challenged to write a mini-saga — which is a little story consisting of exactly 50 words and containing an opening, a middle, and an ending. I decided to accept Mr. Pink’s challenge.
Guess what? I had a lot of fun! So, I have prepared six ‘Mini Bites” for you to consume, each with only 50 words (reduced verbiage but same great content). Oh, I also threw in a closing paragraph with only 50 words. (Think of it as guilt-free dessert.) So tasty! Bon Appetit!
Appetizer:
I agree, fifty does not seem like nearly enough words to convey your thoughts. You must be clever and concise and get your point across quickly. Choose your words carefully. Provide the facts. Trust your readers to fill in the blanks. You will be surprised at how fun it is.
First Course:
Years ago Lucy was an exuberant puppy. Filled to overflowing with unending energy; eager to explore. Everything was new and required sniffing, tasting, chasing. Now, few things excite. Outside is perfunctory – do your business, sit in the sun, warm your bones. Car rides, sleeping, snacks and meals are the priority.
Second Course:
When your supervisor is on vacation, so are you. It doesn’t matter that you remain in the office, tending to endless details and ridiculous questions instead of visiting warm beaches or foreign lands. You’re working with the windows open. The sun is shining. Fresh air abounds. The breeze is exhilarating.
Third Course:
I sat in a terrible, horrible, very bad meeting for nearly three hours last week. UGH! The wrong people attended. The discussions were unfocused and meaningless. Attendees attacked and sniped and blamed. I watched the clock as my life slipped away. What a waste of a summer afternoon, I thought!
Fourth Course:
Driving along the interstate Monday, I hit and killed a hawk. The magnificent bird made a fatal error. Cars traveling at 70 mph were of no concern. The lure of fresh carnage in the middle of five lanes of traffic was too enticing. “Move!” I shouted! The image is inescapable.
Fifth Course:
I voted in an election today. I celebrated the opportunity to cast my vote and have my say. It’s my right, my obligation as a United States citizen. My heartfelt thanks to the men and women in uniform who make this freedom possible. I will not take it for granted.
Dessert:
Why not give it a try? Select a topic and write your own mini-saga, containing 50 words exactly. No more. No less. Your composition should have an opening, middle, and conclusion. Post your “mini-bites” under comments – I would love to read and share them. Post as many as you like.
You counted the words, didn’t you?
Whatever you are, be a good one!
Deanna
Whatever You Are, Be a Good One 