“Did you hear me? I want to know why. How can you keep going day after day as voices spin a web of untruth? Don’t you care? What can we do? I am fearful for the future and what will happen if we continue down this divisive path.”
My mother stood resolute methodically opening each shell. Her silence confused and angered me. I wanted action. I needed a tiny slice of hope.
She kept working, but I knew her thoughts. Her lips pursed tight like her beliefs, she knew I wanted answers. Answers she could not give.
Just yesterday I watched the strong, feisty women at this same table making posters to use their voices to speak out against the hatred, the bitterness, the violence.
Finally, she turned, “No, I do not weep at the world – I am too busy sharpening my oyster knife.”
Prosery Challenge
The inspiration for this post came from dVerse — Prosery — Finding Ms. Zora Neale Hurston by Lisa. The challenge limited the prose to 144 words and the use of the quotation from Zora Neale Hurston.
Learn more about Zora Neale Hurston’s influence and the historical context of her work in this PBS feature.
“No, I do not weep at the world – I am too busy sharpening my oyster knife.”
—Zora Neale Hurston, from “How Does it Feel to be Colored Me” in World Tomorrow (1928)
I dedicate these thoughts to the many women across the world who gather together to make a difference. Without a doubt, many do weep, but they remain steadfast in their resolve and courage. Zora Neale Hurston was one of those women.
And always—
Be kind. Be brave. Be you.
Feature image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Photograph of Zora Neale Hurston by Carl Van Vechten, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
A great story! I really like how you developed the feelings as it progressed. The “tiny slice of hope” was a nice touch!
Thanks, Dwight. This was my first response to a Prosery prompt. And yes, we all need tiny slices of hope.
There is a pragmatism to the mother character that is admirable, even when action is needed, we still need to find ways to survive.
The strongest women I’ve witnessed, press on in spite of obstacles and stand up and take action. Thanks for reading and leaving your thoughts.
Well written, Kathryn – I could really imagine the mother pursing her lips at the table!
<3
David
Thank you. This quotation grabbed me and wouldn’t let go until I found those 144 words.
I can feel every emotion here … and I heard their voices …. well done!
Thanks Helen. I appreciate the feedback.
Kathryn, I love every bit of your post, from the top image to the dedication at the bottom. What a wonderful tribute to these women! My favorite part from your prosery was:
“She kept working, but I knew her thoughts. Her lips pursed tight like her beliefs, she knew I wanted answers. Answers she could not give.” And whether or not she could give the answers, her actions were a perfect response. Welcome to dVerse and hope to see you again.
Lisa, thank you so much. Something about that prompt spoke to me. I will definitely continue to share my writing. I haven’t had a chance to read all the other writers. but those I have were remarkable. I learned from each one.
Kathryn. Dear Kathryn. How fantastic that you came.
And what a gem, what inspiration
Your piece went right straight to my heart. ♥️
Hehe. I know who this author is. (I think) well isn’t she the amazing author of Their Eyes
Were Watching God?! If she’s not, I’ll eat my words.
Yum yum
Thanks for the amazing work. I’m a big fan of yours.
What a joy to find your words of encouragement. My hope for our troubled world comes pouring in when I read the thoughts and passions of people from around the world.
Then, when a friend drops by, I smile even wider.
Aww. Come to dVerse again dear friend. They’re doing great things. I’ll be waiting. Please come.
I’m on my way…