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Victor D. Sandiego's avatar

Stories like this one that have a refrain can quite be compelling. Like this one is. In this case, it’s also in the title, and the repetition of what Marie would say kept me engaged and also wondering why she wasn’t hanging out with Jack in the moment. It wasn’t until “Marie would’ve hated Florida…” that I realized that she was gone. Nicely done, Jim. Many thanks for re-sharing.

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Jim Cummings's avatar

Thank you Victor. Thoughtful comments like yours are the reason I keep writing. Better than money in my book.

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Ben Woestenburg's avatar

And Sharron sent me over here to read you because she said I needed to. I agree, that's why I'm subscribing. That woman knows her shit!

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Jim Cummings's avatar

Thank you Ben. Very happy to have you here.

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Ben Woestenburg's avatar

Sharron Bassano gave me a link to your page telling me that you and I are very similar in our writing. Can't argue with that!

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James Ron's avatar

Real nice, Jim! Gotta have a Plan B.

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Jim Cummings's avatar

Everyone gotta have a plan B

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Sharron Bassano's avatar

This is such a wonderfully multi-sensory story -- the sound of the brown leaves blowing through the door with Howie, his distinctive olfactory signature of varnish, the image of him as Defeated Man (Seated). You brilliantly tell the entire story through dialogue, and the dialogue is absolutely authentic and natural. I feel as if I am eaves-dropping. I love how you let us know Marie through Jack remembering her linguistic dexterity . I did not even guess that Marie had died until the end. I am so glad you reposted this. It really showcases your talent as a writer.

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Jim Cummings's avatar

Thank you so much Sharron. Your words are always encouraging to me.

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