This page is an ever changing and expanding set of examples of my writing. Some pieces are longer and more complete than others, depending on the inspiration, time and work I want to put into them. Others are simply free writing inspired by a mood, a phrase or image that happens to be repeating in my head that day. I keep them in little files on my computer never knowing which may blossom into something bigger. There are so many, so I thought I’d share a few. Enjoy.
Kirkwood
A Series of Short Stories
Millions of people are busy bustling about in the city of Los Angeles. They are from all walks of life and every corner of the globe trying to survive just like the rest of us. It’s golden hour and everything from the firework bursts of green palm trees to the choking rush hour traffic is coated in a thick, magical light. People look up at that light feeling for a moment that there is something more than just the worries of their day. Feeling that there might be something ancient and unexplainable controlling their fates and this city. For most, the feeling is a quick second of unnerving helplessness before their brains are back at it, trying to build or destroy dreams. Trying to survive. But some are drawn by these forces. People who are no longer good for themselves or society are pulled by their own sins into the glistening Hollywood Hills where they disappear. Kirkwood is a collection of short stories inspired by living in the Hollywood Hills and by the worlds that exist along the edges of our iris’s or deep REM sleep. The worlds we like to pretend aren’t there. Kirkwood are the stories about those who disappear. You can decide if they deserved it or not, but I don’t think the ancient creatures that take them care one way or another about your opinion. .
Click below to read short stories from Kirkwood
Smugan-The Slow Creeper
Everyone loves a good dragon story. My obsession came from childhood when my mother read Beowulf and The Hobbit to my sister and I. When she got to Smaug, the ancient dragon occupying the mountains of Erebor, I was hooked. Throughout my life I’ve stumbled on a few great dragon stories and probably missed quite a few as well, but I never entertained the idea of writing one until recently. Finding new and interesting ways to portray a dragon story is no small task. I gave myself permission not to worry about it, just write and have fun. Here’s a bit for your enjoyment.
BLEACH AND BACON
A two hour glimpse of a pandemic day. Mind reeling, unable to sleep. You get it.
BLUE
A story inspired by a dream. There isn’t much more to tell about it other than I think I could expand it at some point. I want to explore more about the main character, where she comes from, what’s her story, but for now, it’s just a few pages of inspiration.
MAIVE
Complete free write. Not sure where it came from. Enjoy.
RUN OFF
A free write from years ago. I added a small paragraph recently and thought this story might evolve into a graphic novel or comic book. I see something in Benjamin and what he’s gone through and his new connection (or power?) with the earth. Still stewing on it.
Charity Stashwick 