The Grim Journal

Saturday, September 26
The first of the leaves falling. It’s a month now since they took Molly to the hospital.  I often catch myself unconsciously weeping.

 

Wednesday, November 4
Frost came early this year. When the electricity is on I try to warm myself. There’s the gas range, but the ration box is late again so nothing to cook.

 

Friday, January 8
I kept the holidays by avoiding them, draped in black as though they were mirrors in a mourning household.

 

Thursday March 11
Has it only been a year?

 

Friday May 1
The armored trucks now broadcast news through loudspeakers in the president’s voice.

 

Friday Fictioneers

 

For those who asked for a longer version, I have an expanded version I wrote for Prose Magazine.

20 comments

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  1. Iain Kelly

    I think there might be rioting before it gets to a year. Good luck keeping your daughter entertained. My two are holding up well so far – just waiting for the novelty to wear off for them, then it will get tricky!

  2. Nobbinmaug

    That’s the scary part. Once they have a lockdown, how long until it’s Martial Law? Once that goes into effect, how do you get them to lift it? Scary, but hopefully, not prophetic.

  3. pennygadd51

    Powerfully written, Josh. I liked your metaphor “I kept the holidays by avoiding them, draped in black as though they were mirrors in a mourning household.”

Don't just stand there.