I apologize for the delay in getting this post up. Usually we have them scheduled, but I thought I would have plenty of time to get home today and traffic had something else to say about that. Thank you for your patience.
Picture it & Write is a weekly creative writing prompt hosted by the Ermilia coauthors, Ermisenda and Eliabeth. We invite you to join in; continue the story or starting your own based on inspiration from the image. Poetry and foreign languages are welcome, but please provide a translation. This photograph will be reblogged under Ermisenda on tumblr and added to the Picture it & Write gallery on Facebook and Pinterest.
Sorry mom,
I have my own plans, my own dreams. I cannot continue to dance. I cannot continue to plan my cotillion with you. Who wears elbow length gloves anymore anyway? I love you; this isn’t about you. This isn’t me rebelling against the life you had. This is me finding my own passions. I have lived so long in your shadow, mimicked your poses in pictures, and tried to match your extensions that I have forgotten what it is like to dream. I once wanted to be a princess. It was a stupid dream, but it was a dream. I can’t be you. I don’t have the dancer’s heart.
I love you, but you need to let me go.
-Eliabeth Hawthorne
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Every fortnight we hope to host a photograph suggested by contributors. So, keep those photograph recommendations coming. Submit your favourite images (with credit) for next week’s Picture it & Write!
Ermilia 
Pingback: Picture It & Write, 3 February, 2013: Goodbye In Fall « One Starving Activist
Here is my submission, called “Goodbye in Fall:” http://starvingactivist.wordpress.com/2013/02/03/picture-it-write-3-february-2013-goodbye-in-fall/
How wonderfully bitter sweet. I like the transition from autumn to winter with the change in character and life stages.
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Oh, that was very touching, Eliabeth… Yes, we all need to pursue our own dreams..! 😉
Here is my contribution… I got in early this week.. 🙂
http://abcofspiritalk.wordpress.com/2013/02/03/picture-it-write-she-was-three-no-five/
A parent’s worst nightmare! You did a great job of evoking a powerful emotion without the horror aspect.
I love this. “you have to let me go” Terrific. I will write mine soon!
Thanks Deanabo, I look forward to it.
that’s a pretty photo! and a heartbreakingly painful yet wonderfully liberating letter 🙂
I was inspired by Center Stage. Fantastic movie if you haven’t seen it. That’s what the picture reminded me of.
Pingback: Picture it & Write XII « The Eclectic Eccentric Shopaholic
this time i’ve decided on a historical romance -ish story ^^ http://theeclecticeccentricshopaholic.wordpress.com/2013/02/03/picture-it-write-xii/
You jest, my dear sweet innocent kz… This is nothing but saucy, sweet, unbridled passion coupled with a dash of twist…. Haha… 😉
I apologize for taking so long to read this, but I was warned not to read this at work. I really enjoyed it though I’ll never understand the appeal of a mystery man. I never imagined something as dramatic as this, but even in movies like A Cinderella Story, the person isn’t who you expect. It’s that gap between expectation and reality.
Pingback: Picture it and Write: Searching « Joe2stories
Keeping up with the Haiku tradition
Trinkets on a branch
I must ask why they are there
Some unknown purpose
Here’s my offering for today
Enjoy
Joe
I used Haiku too
I like the haiku, great use of trinkets.
Overall, I liked the message. Even though children may want to be treated like adults, they aren’t. I think child celebrities are a perfect example; just because they have the wealth to be legally separated from their parents should they pursue that course doesn’t mean they have the maturity level to handle the repercussions of that decision.
You know I usually love your writing, but this one had some instances that I found hard to read through. Just as I hope no one gives me empty praise for my writing, I hope you don’t mind me discussing this with you on a more critical level.
1. I thought it they were a minor, the police could get involved within the first 24 hours because of the fatality rate the longer it takes to locate the child.
2. She could have been taken away at gun point. Many kids aren’t taught to scream if they see a gun. I’ve seen some security film where the child walks placidly to the car and gets in with a total stranger because they are too scared to make a scene. Whether that saves their life or seals it’s early demise I’ve never really figured out.
That short story you wrote raises a very good theme – how far down the road each of us is able to go on the road of our chosen hobby or even passion, before one realises the heart isn’t in it anymore, or real life’s constraints take over. Some may make it to the stage or the Olympic gold medal, many don’t because of the reasons above, or as said in your story.
Yerpirate your comment made me weep. I’m learning that even at my age, sometimes life deserves do overs. But how the hell does one begin?
”Even”!…Renee…you are a dream of a woman! One begins with small steps and later they become leaps over the chasm…PS..IF you’re interested….http://ligoeditions.wordpress.com/2013/02/07/the-ligo-haibun-challenge-prompt-melt/
Yerpirate, though I haven’t seen this happen in real life, it’s hard to watch or read fiction where someone has the talent but not the heart. It’s most hard on the people living through them, who think that giving it up is walking away from the dream. It was fun to write even though I’ve been blessed with the heart and ability to pursue writing.
Renee, don’t think of it as a do-over. That can be intimidating and overwhelming. Think of it instead as a new chapter in your life. Start small and work towards what you want in life. It’s never too late or too early to go for what you want.
I’m working on become a better writer everyday. I never thought I had a talent. A passion. Then the words started. There’s a book in me. It comes to me at the strangest times. In the strangest places. I’ve worked from time to time with other writers. One in particular thinks he’s good. He is. But his words lack depth. Heart. He can weave an incredible story, but there is cynicism to it. He doesn’t let his guard down. Since he can’t, his fiction doesn’t ring true. Doesn’t make sense I know.
My blog started out as a journal. It’s now more fiction than anything else. I bled all over my journal entries. I still do. But I bleed in my fiction too. Even in the erotica. Gotta put soul into it, or what good is it? If I write a tragic love story, I better damn well cry when I read it. For if the writer doesn’t, then the reader sure as hell won’t!
Yerpirate and Ermilia, I’m blessed to know you both. To get your feedback and to read your stories. Thank you for letting me in and letting me share. I kinda like it here.
Love, Renee
Ooh, your piece reminded me a little of the darkness in the Black Swan. I loved that movie! Hmm… Odette…
I couldn’t get past the impression of the girl being missing, so I went with that. Here’s Disappearing Act. Back to read later… party to go to.
“Like a snail in cryogenic suspension slow.” Fantastic imagery that actually made me think back to the blue and purple person image a few weeks back.
Looks like didn’t pingback…http://managuagunntoday.wordpress.com/2013/02/03/picture-it-write-irinas-necklace-2/
“…starting his story anywhere he wanted beginning, middle or end, and in fact usually the middle.” I love people who can do that! It’s a talent I don’t think I’ve mastered, to be able to jump around while maintaining the flow and keeping the listener from getting confused.
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Here’s my entry.
Wow, very dark. You gave me goosebumps and I liked the loss of innocence.
I loved the last picture – this one is lending itself to me as well. Off to write and will come and have a read after.
Reblogged this on awritersfountain and commented:
Going to have a go at another freewrite – love this picture too.
Here’s my attempt.
How sweet! Really tender; I see what you mean about connecting to the mother. Even though you wrote about the child, I saw it as a mother watching, looking at the different paths her daughter could take.
A great letter, so many of us follow a parental dream, you reach a point where you really need to be in your dreams.
It was powerful, I kept reflecting on how the mother felt.
Oh that’s interesting! I didn’t connect to the mother at all.
Wonderful post, beautiful. I almost passed by this but was very moved and compelled to contribute as well. I’m not sure how to link back to my posting but it’s on my blog if you’d like to read what you inspired.
When you reblog this page a message comes up here automatically. When you have finished your write copy URL, come back here via the link that will be on reblogged page, type a comment and paste your link. Pingback
You don’t need to reblog. Just put a link to here in your post and you can post the URL for your post back in the comment section for whatever week your writing for.
I’m really glad you decided to participate. It nearly brought me to tears. I connect with dancers even though I can never move my body like that. I can never imagine the loss of a child or the guilt and wonder of “if I had been there, would this have happened?”
You can copy-paste the link in the comments section. Usually adding a link back to our original post results in a ping-back and sends us a link as a comment. We also appreciate reblogs, but that’s not necessary.
Reblogged this on Scorpio Scribe and commented:
This looks like a very intersting writing group! I’m looking forward to challenging my muse to come out and play!
When do you stop accpeting submissions for this prompt?
There is no time limit on inspiration.
Anne is correct, there’s never a cut-off for your muse. We try to reply to all comments, but if it’s been a couple weeks, you might have to give us an added nudge if it got lost in the comments.
Just norminated you wonderful gals for the Versatile Blogger Award! 🙂
http://prisailurophileblog.wordpress.com/2013/02/04/versatile-blogger-award-7-random-things-about-me/
Pingback: Picture it & Write – Anita, the Dancer | call2read
Hi Ermilia, this post spoke of independence and assertiveness. My contribution for this week:
http://call2read.com/2013/02/04/picture-it-write-anita-the-dancer/
I think it’s interesting that she didn’t return to what she had given up once he was no longer an option. Thanks for contributing.
Pingback: Picture It And Write – allaboutlemon-All Around, In, And Out Of My Own Universe
She pranced through the forest without a care in the world, certain that this would finally be her moment. The dead, twisted branches of the autumn trees slapped at her, tearing her flesh as she ran, but the pain was swallowed whole by her euphoria. She tore her jewels and gloves away, laughing as she ran, throwing them to the trees like unwanted gifts, returned to their suitors without a passing thought. He had to meet her there, surely he would come and prove to the others that he was a man of his word. He could not the man they warned her about, couldn’t possibly possess the cruelty of which they spoke.
Could he?
Nice work! A wonderful mixture of description and the naivete of the character. Well done!
I liked the “pain was swallowed whole by her euphoria” line! Like the emotion is a snake.
Like Joe and Anne, I too enjoyed your writing… I especially liked the twist at the end.. Well done..! 🙂
Wonderful mix of dark imagery and naive hope with the potential to turn out well. I think you ended it in a great place; I love the cliffhanger.
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Here is my contribution:
I liked the ending, the hollowness of looking in a mirror and not recognizing the figure that looks back.
Adore this 😀 Wrote a poem about it 🙂 Hope you like it :
http://poisonedredapple.wordpress.com/2013/02/03/415/
Thanks for contributing. Beautiful writing.
Reblogged this on the curious traveler.
Here’s my little poem. Take a quick peek and tell me what you think:
http://prosemachine.com/2013/02/03/amelia-young-amelia/
I’m really glad you decided to participate. It nearly brought me to tears. I connect with dancers even though I can never move my body like that. I can never imagine the loss of a child or the guilt and wonder of “if I had been there, would this have happened?”
Hello, i really loved your work. It was sad…
Pingback: Picture It and Write It-Memories of a Young Dancer | Rendezvous With Renee
Here’s my take my dears. It took me back to when I was 12. Damn, but that was a long time ago.
Here’s my take my dears. It took me back to when I was 12. Damn, but that was a long time ago.
http://rendezvouswithrenee.com/2013/02/04/picture-it-and-write-it-memories-of-a-young-dancer/
Wow, that is incredibly powerful and the ending is so sweet! I’m honored to get to be a part of your passion, getting to read your blog and watch you express yourself through writing. Obviously that’s a passion I understand and share. 😀
I just knew you would like it. Thanks for the lovely photo. It took me back to the dreams I had as a young girl. I so appreciate your comments and kindness. Take care sweetheart.
Love, Renee
Are there rules to this writing prompt?
I actually just asked Ermilia about this, because I’ve written some stuff that could be considered offensive. Just give a warning if your content might be questionable was the answer I got.
Hey Tad. Just as Anne said, just letting us know if the content is mature. That’s the only real rule! 😀 Happy writing!
– Ermisenda
Pingback: My Little Girl Has Grown Today « Eric M. Vogt's Blog
Here is my submission:
http://ericmvogt.wordpress.com/2013/02/04/my-little-girl-has-grown-today/
Thanks, Ermilia, for the challenge! 🙂
Awe, it’s so touching! I heard some of my relationship with my dad in your words. Congratulations to your daughter! That’s a huge accomplishment. Speaking for myself, your daughter may not need you, but that doesn’t mean you’re any less appreciated. My dad is actually being a HUGE help in formatting our paperback.
Here is another one from LoveBytesOnAir: http://lovebytesonair.blogspot.com/2013/02/picture-it-and-write.html
Thanks Ermiklia 🙂 xoxo
I love the haiku. Those are harder to write than I’d like to admit lol. Thanks for contributing.
Pingback: Picture it & write – ballet shoes | The poet's hide
Here’s mine this week.
http://poeticalpoet.wordpress.com/2013/02/06/ballet-shoes/
I loved the imagery behind “beautiful in surrender.” There’s some yoga poses that come to mind where the beauty is in surrendering and letting go. It also displays the pain behind Pointe.
Pingback: The Mind Of A Boy In The Body Of A Girl | An Evil Nymph's Blog
I really don’t know where I was going with this… but well I let my imagination and the picture run wild together… http://evilnymphstuff.wordpress.com/2013/02/08/the-mind-of-a-boy-in-the-body-of-agirl/
OMGosh this was amazing. From the title I was expecting a transgender character rather than a lesbian tom-boy, but it was still excellent.
This made me giggle: “my eyes bombarded with unnecessary colours.”
I need to keep my eyes out on here. I love these things!
“My grandmother was a dancer.
She was so graceful.
That’s all I wanted to be was graceful too.
From the time I was old enough to walk, that’s all I was doing, was dancing around in an old tutu.
I was trained from an young age.
That’s all I wanted to be was a prima ballerina.
This old pearl necklace became the only thing I had left of my grandmother after she died.
Before she passed away, she gave me this necklace. She said she wore it around the bun in her hair.
She was the only thing that kept me dancing.
Now I don’t even want to dance.
I hope my grandmother understands. “
We do them once a week! 😀 Come back as often as you like ot look through the archives to contribute to some favorites.
Awe. It’s interesting how death affects us in different ways. Thanks for contributing.
I have been thinking about contributing on the other ones. I might do them later on tonight because I have some ideas floating in my hair. 🙂
Haha “floating in your hair.” I can’t wait to read them. A new one just posted!
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I’m not to happy with this but here it is anyway: Lake in the woods
What didn’t you like about it? I thought the character was good and liked her self assessment of, “I’m tired of people doubting me and tired of me doubting myself, and fed up of being afraid.”
Oh, I don’t know, well I felt as if I rushed it and when I tried to take it apart I can’t see how it could be changed. With it being almost a week later, I’m okay with it now.
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Wow guys! This one was popular. I’m so sorry to still be replying but I want to make sure I get to read everyone’s contributions. Thank you to all of the participants! It means so much to us that you engage with something we’re doing. 😀
Pingback: Goodbye… « La Dolce Vita of Lexperanza ♥
Hi!
I know I’m late but I here’s my contribution nontheless:
The picture was as inspiring as your story!
There’s no such thing as late, don’t worry. 😀 We invite you to go through the archives as well if any of them call to you.
This has me in tears. It’s hard enough to go against the grain when you have the love and support of your parents, but doing it without is unimaginable. What a powerful piece of writing. ❤
Hello, well I guess better late than never 🙂 here is my contribution http://rachaelsbooks.wordpress.com/short-stories/
Thanks to Devina who directed me here, and I hope you like this. Thank you 🙂