Why is fiction predominantly negative?

Fiction is a class of literature that comprises works of imaginative narration. It is something invented, imagined, and made up.

We all cherish fiction for how it ignites our imagination and sends shivers down our spine, especially when a character is swept away by emotions we, too, might experience. It's the joy of storytelling that we all relish.

Recently, there has been a surge of difficult-to-conceive fictional stories that stretch the limits of what we can fathom. These stories often carry a heavy dose of negativity, with elements of horror that seem illogical and unsettling, and can be pretty disturbing. This excessive negativity can linger in a person's mind, making it difficult to relax and sleep peacefully at night.

Sometimes, I wonder if humanity tests its endurance by stretching a rubber band until it loses its elasticity, leading to devastation!!

Some argue that it is just plain imagination.

Still, this artistry that overpowers one's imagination does not lift spirits; it just gives nightmares.

I also agree that after turmoil comes spring, which is beautiful. An individual tends to embrace it with self-composure and dignity since he has seen the ugly side. But why scare the wits out of a man to show him the beautiful side of this creation? We are intelligent beings who appreciate it anyway!

How about doing it subtly?

Life can often feel overwhelming, with challenges piling up like fragile eggs in a basket, each one at risk of cracking under pressure. These cracks may form from our decisions or unforeseen circumstances that life throws our way, like sudden loss in family, health issues, success in the workplace, or unexpected relationship troubles. As we navigate these difficulties, we do so with determination and hope, gently touching our fate as though we could reshape it. We cling to the belief that taking thoughtful steps can mend our broken journeys and illuminate our future with brighter possibilities.

As writers, let's strive for a more balanced approach in our fiction, eliminating the overwhelming negativity that can hinder development in all aspects. A well-rounded narrative is key to engaging and uplifting our readers so they can navigate through their ugliness with the hope that there is light at the end of their dark tunnel.

Mantra for today: Negativity of all forms shuts the door of progress.

The Ripple Effect

As individuals, we wield a significant influence on the world. It all begins with a simple act, like plucking a flower. The intention behind our actions is of utmost importance, and it's within our control to ensure that intention is positive. 

When a flower detaches from a tree'
s branch, it carries a similar emotional resonance, which is transferred to the tree. That effect then spreads to the soil and, subsequently, to its surroundings. This subtle yet magnificent ripple effect can shift the universe's perspective if we are mindful of our actions. Actions speak louder than words, and their impact can be observed daily.

When we act with mindfulness, even the smallest actions can have a profound effect. Just like the ripple effect of a plucked flower, our mindful actions can transform how the universe perceives us. This power is within us, waiting to be harnessed.

Initially, the term "mindfulness" was a trendy buzzword many used without truly understanding its meaning. Phrases like, "Hey! I am being mindful. Hope you are too!" and "Absolutely, dude! I love the term, and my mind is definitely full of it!" became commonplace. This raises a question worth reflecting on: Are people genuinely practicing mindfulness, or is their mind cluttered? 

Mindfulness involves focusing on each action, allowing us to contemplate its significance. This contemplation brings forth an ethical aspect—what is the right thing to do in this situation? What is wrong? This ethical consideration is a crucial part of mindfulness, and it's our responsibility to uphold it. 

Of course, when we are upset, even mindful actions can be met with anger and frustration. But that's okay; don't be too hard on yourself; the key is to remain conscious. The awareness of having acted wrongly can be haunting, yet we must remember that life continuously offers us opportunities to make similar choices. 

When we are mindful, we can choose kind, compassionate, and ethical actions. Making the right choice can be a turning point in our lives, leading to positive change and personal growth. 

Ultimately, the most important thing is to be mindful by letting go of the past and the future and focusing on the present. Achieving this can be easier said than done! 

There are practical ways to embrace the present, such as spending time in nature and appreciating the beauty of green grass and the gentle breeze through the leaves. Engage all your senses as you listen to the wind, inhale the fragrant air, observe each rustling leaf, and even sing a tune from your favorite song while feeling the texture of a leaf that passes by. There's joy in experiencing these moments.

Fortunately, we cannot revisit past events, as nature encourages us to be present in the moment. Embracing the present allows us to cultivate a sense of gratitude, bringing peace within ourselves.

Take the right action, and you may be surprised by how the ripple effect includes you. You will feel that effect and marvel at the impact you've made.

The Tongue wants more....

 When man tastes success, the tongue wants more! 

This is one epic quote by Kapil Dev, a legendary cricketer of India. 

This quote resonates with all of us, regardless of our different life paths. We naturally seek more when we experience success in any area—whether through acts of kindness or financial gain. 

The reason is simple: we feel exhilarated by these achievements and are motivated to pursue further success. Of course, we must earn our accomplishments; nothing worthwhile comes for free. 

However, success often follows once we have put in the hard work. We receive a thrill that propels us to continue striving for greater heights, and that excitement feels as uplifting as a plane soaring high in the sky. Like the man who longs to touch the clouds, we all want to reach for more.

This is life! 

Aspire to reach for the sky, and success will follow if you work hard for it. Once you’ve tasted success, it’s only natural to desire more. That’s a feeling we all share.

Let's ponder: should we set a boundary to our aspirations? 

Just a little something...

The list of my desires could stretch on infinitely, yet I’m not talking about the endless allure of material possessions. There are plenty of shiny objects and trendy gadgets out there, but I find little appeal in most of them. My true longing lies in the simplicity and peace that come with basic comforts, like a warm cup of tea on a chilly evening, a good book, or a heartfelt conversation with a friend—things that make daily life a bit sweeter.

So, what are the specific things I wish for but cannot attain due to time constraints or any other factor that is beyond my capacity? 

Let’s take a moment to explore the depths of our minds and uncover those elusive desires, shall we?

We all have that unique yearning for something special—the kind of dream that, if realized, could fill our lives with warmth, happiness, and vibrancy. For me, it’s the dream of a cozy home filled with laughter and peace of mind. To be able to read only positive news around me, and maybe the ability to spend more time with loved ones or a deep-seated passion that I can pursue without restraint. 

Yet, in the grand tapestry of life, I realize that I have been blessed with more than I could ever need. While I may yearn for certain things, I also recognize the abundance already surrounding me. 

Each day, I introspect and take a moment to reflect on the little joys and blessings that I am surrounded with, and that fills my heart with gratitude. 

 I invite you to do the same. To be in gratitude with what we have, and to find our niche in what is being offered to us by the universe.

Let’s be grateful for the blessings we have. 

While it’s natural for our minds and eyes to wander towards that little something that we believe would make our lives complete, let’s quiet those thoughts by reminding ourselves that we already have everything we deserve. 

Since desiring for just a little something will just tickle our senses and cause us to get irritated over small stuff making us forget for what we already have. 

Mantra for today: Seeing the cup half full, not half empty! 

From Acting to Letting Go!

 

"R, can you please show the right emotions here?" my drama teacher asked in elementary school. She would clutch her papers in frustration while I laughed during a scene that needed me to be serious.

My acting was so bad that my confused look in the play gave the impression that I had a cold, and my nervous act made people laugh because they thought I was silly.

I ended up ruining the whole point of the play.

Even though I loved everything about Hollywood and Bollywood, I joined the drama club every year until I was a teenager. Because of my acting, I was always given small roles. Still, I didn't mind being on stage, even if I only had one word to say. Just being part of it made me happy.

As a teenager, I began to lose hope in acting because I struggled to convey my emotions effectively through my words when it mattered most.

It was hard to accept that my dream of becoming an actor was slipping away from me. Still, I kept practicing in front of the mirror for hours, hoping to get better, but nothing seemed to work.

While I spent all that time in front of the mirror, I noticed that trying to act out emotions brought up a lot of memories—happy, angry, worried, or anxious. Sometimes, just saying a word would bring back a flood of old feelings. Perhaps that's why, when I tried to study, my mind felt too full to absorb anything new.

It made me reflect on the amount of baggage I was carrying, especially at such a young age in my 20s. I was ambitious to pursue many goals, but clinging to past reflections would hinder my progress.

I realized that I needed to let go of my passion for acting, especially since, after many attempts, it had not yielded the desired results.

But it made me wonder: how many times should we keep trying before we decide to stop? I think if one goal starts getting in the way of others, it's okay to let it go.

Embrace your failure and move on!

This became my mantra.

Although it took years to let go, I am glad that my failure to become an actor made me realize that acting was one of the many goals I had to forget about.

As I stand here today, my gray hair filled with wisdom and memories, I feel content with the times I aimed to hit the ball into the net while pursuing many hobbies.

Some attempts resulted in goals, while many did not.

Acceptance has always been the key factor for me, guiding me through every setback and moving me forward.

Mantra for today: Failure is a stepping stone to success as long as we are aware of the setback and choose to act on it.

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This is pure fiction!
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YOLO

 

"Your nails look nice," I complimented my friend as she tapped her long, red-polished nails on the table while we waited for our food to arrive.

"Thanks!" she said, blowing at them gently with an arched eyebrow. 

"So, how do you keep them clean while you're cooking and doing other stuff in the kitchen?" I asked, trying to learn some tips and tricks.

"Cooking and cleaning?" she repeated with a shriek. "Urgh! I have help doing all the work in the house." She shrugged her shoulders and glanced at mine with a playful smirk. "You only live once, babes!" 

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In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about someone (or something) strutting. What has caused the overconfidence? Is it arrogant? Foolish? Legit? How does strutting shape a story? Have fun and go where the prompt leads!

A Leak

 

"I need you to hurry up!" she yelled.

"Relax, it's just a small leak!" I yelped back as I walked towards the kitchen to get a pan to collect the drops falling from my roommate's rooftop.

"Just a small leak?" she countered, "This small leak will sink the whole house."

"Not unless we repair it and stop procrastinating about it," I replied as I put a pan under the drop and searched for a repair person online.

"Wait! What if we can't afford it?" she asked, concerned.

"We'll pay in installments," I reassured her, still looking at my phone.

March 12, 2024, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about leaving a leak. What (or who) is leaking? How can you use the leak to create tension? Expand the idea of leaks. Go where the prompt leads!

The Mask of Pretense

 

We often seek happiness in external factors such as material objects, situations, and occasions. 

However, life is unpredictable, and not everything is in our control. 

It's best to avoid having expectations from anyone. This way, we can teach ourselves to find happiness in whatever we encounter. 

The power of pretending to be happy is extreme and can help us keep our pain at bay. 

By training our minds to be present and aware, we can better cope with life's challenges.

Training your mind and being aware of the present situation will help you cope with everything thrown at you.

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about an intolerable mask. Who is wearing the mask and why? What is so intolerable about the mask? Is there empathy for the one behind the mask? Go where the prompt leads!

My Dignity

Menon saw his wife, Sarita, flipping the pillows on their bed and checking under the comforter, ruffled sheets, and behind the chest of drawers.

 He asked irritatingly, "What are you looking for? And why aren't you dressed?" 

Sarita whispered, "I'm looking for my dignity?" 

And she continued to search other rooms.

With crossed eyebrows, Menon followed her and asked, "Is that a new cosmetic? Just get dressed without it." he said, glancing at his watch. 

She squinted at him with crossed arms and said sternly, "I can't go to places where I am a mere puppet. Go without me!"

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about something lost now found. Is it an object or person who is lost? How are they lost? What happens when what was lost is found? Go where the prompt leads!

Are You Coming Tonight?

Sarla asked, "Hey! Are you coming tonight?" 

There was a slight pause on the other end. 

Sarla urged, "Oh! Come on, the pandemic is over. We all have to meet in person. Everyone is coming!" 

Macy sighed heavily before responding, "What's the point of meeting? We talk on the phone every day. I have nothing new to add." 

There was a lack of enthusiasm in her tone. 

 "I understand where you're coming from, but we must bring the fish out of the water. Let's cherish the moments of physical touch and not let technology take that away from us," 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a fish out of water. What is the source of the tension? The characters, the action, the setting? Or, is it literally a story about fish, real or metaphorical? Go where the prompt leads!

What's your Pace?

 

"Congratulations! Your vitals are good, and you'll be discharged from the hospital today," announced the doctor as he reviewed the patient's medical file. 

The caretaker was thrilled. 

However, the patient seemed less than thrilled. Upon noticing his solemn expression, the doctor inquired, "Is everything alright? You don't seem very happy." 

After taking a deep breath, the patient replied, "I'm relieved that I have recovered from my illness, but the thought of conforming to society's demands makes me anxious."

"Hmmm, you can choose the pace of your life. Your rhythm will determine the length of your recovery," said the doctor. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a recovery story. What instigated the recovery? What is being recovered? Data, athletes, illness — expand the idea of recovery and find your story. Go where the prompt leads!

Are the results out, yet?

 

I shouted, "Are the results out yet?"while quickly pulling on my pants and zipping them up, then pushed the door open. 

Mom was busy knitting, and she shook her head no.

"Mom!" I shrieked, refreshed the screen, and exhaled deeply. 

Our eyes met. 

She was calm, wearing a gentle smile despite my reaction. 

The results had not yet been released, so I sat beside her. "I can't take this waiting game!" I lamented.

"Sing a song!" Mom said. 

"Huh?" I responded. 

"Keep your mind busy, Sara. Time will tick away! Besides, the results are not in your hand." 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about waiting. Where does this waiting take place? Does it have a past or a future outcome? Who is waiting and why? Go where the prompt leads!

The First Rain of the Season

 "It's raining! Get the air fryer out," urged Dev as he walked in with damp clothes.

"You do realize fried food is not good for your health. Your cholesterol has been high," said Tina with an arched eyebrow. 

Dev paused and took a deep breath, inhaling the Petrichor potpourri, a unique, earthy smell associated with rain.

"The season's first rainfall is always special, and it needs a celebration, Tina," he endorsed, "Besides, we are using an air fryer and not deep frying the food in oil, so it's not bad for the health." he winked with a twisted smile. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a festa. It can be any festival, celebration, or use of the word. Is it food-related or an event? Is it an object or a shout-out? Who is involved and why? What happens? Go where the prompt leads!

Unexpected Weather

"Mom, it's raining stones outside, and I have bruises all over," Jules exclaimed as she entered the house, holding her head and examining her arms. 

Curious, her Mom asked, "Raining stones? In sunny California?" She quickly looked out the window and saw a hailstorm. 

The wind was forcefully throwing ice balls, creating a sound similar to throwing stones when they hit the ground. 

"Oh my, I never thought I'd see this kind of weather on our side of the country. And to think I pay high taxes for sunny days! This must be due to Global Warming," she fumed. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about the arrival of the weather. It can mean any kind of weather event meteorological or mythological. Is the weather personified, random, or calculating? Where does it arrive? Is it typical or epoch-changing? Who is involved? And if the Womam Who Doesn’t Want Red Hair shows up, well, ask her what’s happening. Go where the prompt leads!

Take Me Home, Country Roads

 

The drive from the airport to the familiar streets was heart-wrenching, as many memories kept popping up. 

I reached the colony and met my friends with fond hugs, but my eyes wandered to a particular home. 

The familiar foliage and vibes couldn't keep me from knocking on the door. 

I hoped the door would open like old times when two familiar figures would hug me with warmth and unconditional love- my parents. 

But just then, my friend interrupted my train of thought! 

"Don't do this to yourself again! You know your parents are dead, and a tenant lives here." 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about the journey home. Who is going home? Or are they in search of a future home or ancestral roots? Think of home as a life lived — adventures, relationships, accumulations. What makes home worth the journey? Go where the prompt leads!

Timing Matters

 

"I think we should take the south route," Aisha stated confidently.

Mala interjected, "But there's always traffic at this time. Let's take the inner roads instead; it'll be faster."

"I understand, but traffic helps me practice patience."

"That's good, but I want to be on time for work. Can you exercise your patience when driving alone?"

"Don't worry; I'll ensure we arrive on time."

Mala scoffed, "How? Does your car have wings?"

Despite Mala's remark, Aisha was resolute and selected the south route on her GPS.

'Why did I agree to carpool with such an immature co-worker?' thought Mala.

: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about something or someone immature. Is it a wine not yet ready to uncork or an adult not ready to adult? You can follow the flight of immature fledglings or come up with something unexpected. Go where the prompt leads!

The Drive to Write

The emotions stirred by every breath we take in life motivate us to rise each morning, take action, and express gratitude to the Universe for filling us with vigor and affection. 

These same emotions inspire me to write down the diverse stories of individuals, exploring themes that celebrate the beauty of humanity and life. 

I draw inspiration from the issues that trouble our minds and am committed to the craft of writing. Every character I create undergoes a thoughtful journey, making my novels a source of contemplation for readers.

 I've penned down a dozen contemporary fiction novels at: www.ruchirakhanna.com

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story based on the phrase “commitment in a can.” What is the commitment and to whom? Describe the can. How does it expand the story? Go where the prompt leads!

Passage of Time

"It's getting late, sonny boy! The school bus will be here anytime. Let me help you with the socks while you finish your breakfast." I said as I glanced at the clock.

"Mom, we are running late for the convocation ceremony. Allow me to help you so we can be on the roads soon." said the same boy, 21 years later, as he helped me with the socks due to my arthritic hips. 

Embracing the inevitability of time is crucial in navigating the waters of life. We must keep rowing our boat to make a difference in this lifetime. 

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a loving relationship with an adult child. What happens when a significant child in one’s life becomes an adult?  How did the relationship shift? What is the importance of the new dynamic? Go where the prompt leads!

A Chopping Aide

"I just can't cook." Sarah lamented.

"Why so?" inquired Leone, who was as earnest in her query as a nurse, would be to her patient.

"Gravy is the key ingredient to get texture in any dish. Alas! I can't chop onions. They bring tears to my eyes." With that, she breathed a deep sigh that was as cold as if she had just landed in the Frigid zone.

Leone quickly handed a shield to her friend, "Wear this armor before you chop onions; it will protect you from the sooty vapors that they emit, that'll prevent tears from coming."

 In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a golden onion. Any golden onion. One planted or harvested. An onion chopped for a meal. How can you use an onion as a prop in a character’s hand? Go where the prompt leads!

Just a Spoonful

"Hons, Could you also make me a PB&J sandwich?" Sarah requested from the room that was diagonal to the kitchen. 

"Err, how much jam should I dab on your slice? I'm aware you have a less-sugar policy."

"Just a spoonful should be good." 

Once finished, Sarah joined him at the table. She bit into her sandwich hungrily and, within a second, snorted, "Jeez! The jam is oozing out from my sandwich. Didn't I say just a spoon?" 

"You didn't specify which spoon. So, I went with the one I used to make mine," said Jason with a wide smile. 

In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story about a smear of jam. Is it across a slice of toast, a white shirt, or something unexpected? The jam could be the focus or detail that ads a twist. Who are the characters with the jam and where are they situated in space and time? Go where the prompt leads!