In Keith’s words. “Using this photo (below) as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; even just a caption for the photograph. Either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithchanning@gmail.com before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, , this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here.
Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries next Monday.”
The Photo.

The Departure by John W. Howell ©2019
“What are you doing with that bugle?”
“I was going to play a farewell.”
“Farewell to who?”
“Whom.”
“Huh?”
“To whom. A farewell to whom.”
“That’s what I’m asking.”
“Okay, never mind. I don’t have time for a ‘Who’s on first’ thing with you.”
“What are you talking about? Let’s get back to the farewell.”
“See that guy in the prison clothes over there.”
“You mean the dayglo orange, so no one will miss seeing me, clothes?
“Whatever. See the guy?”
“Yes. Who could miss the guy.”
“He is loading Wanda for her last ride.”
“Wanda?”
“Yeah. Wanda Wagon. She’s gone over that mechanics bridge to the great junkyard in the sky.”
“Please. You are getting all maudlin over that pile of junk?”
“Pile of junk? That car has been through thick and thin with me.”
“Thick and thin? How do you figure? You bought her used last year.”
“Well, it’s been a tough year.”
“Don’t you think you are getting carried away?”
“Says the guy who sobbed at his Vespa’s departure.”
“That’s different. I had that scooter since I was eighteen.”
“Is that a tear I see?”
“I still miss her.”
“Didn’t you get a Harley?”
“Well, yeah. It’s just not the same.”
“I’ll say. Chrome headlights, fabulous saddlebags, terrific seat, wheels that would make you cry.”
“Yeah, she is sweet. You getting another wagon?”
“Do you have no sensitivity at all. It is too soon to talk of another wagon.”
“Coup, huh?”
“I’m in mourning.”
“Maybe red with a turbo V8?”
“I like blue better.”
“Ah, midnight blue. Maybe a convertible? The dealer is down the street.”
“Might do me good.”
“What about the bugle?”
“You are right. It was only a used car, after all.”
“You sure we were talking about cars?”







