Tags
creative writing, death, family, flash fiction, hero, micro-fiction, prose, short story, war
The family had no idea that little Luigi would grow up to be a famous war hero.
They thought he would always be the littlest, the runt. They thought he would be the small, irresponsible baby of the family. They thought he would always be theirs.
Now, he belonged to the world. Now, he was a repeatedly decorated Army officer with international acclaim. Now, he was a hero.
At least, that was what the chaplin said as he handed the folded flag with the spent shells to his mother.
How unnatural it was to outlive her son. How unfair.
99 words
https://mondaysfinishthestory.wordpress.com/2015/08/24/mondays-finish-the-story-august-14th-2015/
Beautiful. How excellent is this story….
thank you so much! 🙂
A metamorphosis of sorts — from life into death, that is
definitely. 🙂
Heartbreaking, so wonderfully told tale
I am glad it moved you! 🙂
So very sad yet joyful to remember how brave he was. Too many families have dealt with these emotions over the years. Very good story…
very true.
So much power in so few words. And you’re right, a parent should never outlive there child. Unfortunately it often happens. Well done on the story though!
I am glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
Excellent story! I loved how you ended it!
thank you for the lovely compliment! 🙂
Wonderful story with a sad twist at the end. True for far too many.
yea it just flowed to that conclusion. had no idea what the ending would be till I got there. thanks as always. 🙂
This is so sad, but well told.
glad it provoked some emotion. the best I can hope for as a writer. thank you. 🙂
Great writing – you captured the mother’s bewilderment and grief so well.
thank you. that part was based on a conversation my late mother and I had about the naturalness of a parent going first. 🙂
What a sad ending to a heroic story. I enjoyed your story Veronica! Nicely done! Thanks for writing for the MFtS challenge and I hope that you come back for the next one. Be well… ^..^
I am glad you enjoyed it. yes, I plan to be back. thanks! 🙂
I am looking forward to reading your stories.
Excellent!
thank you! 🙂
Yes the problem all parents have that we might outlive our children…..lovely take on the photo.
true. thank you. 🙂
This is so very touching.
“handed the folded flag” it’s beautiful 🙂
A beautifully sad story, very well told. I love the final line. Well done. 🙂
yea, a lot of my pieces are coming out sad lately. not sure why, cause I am in a good space these days. as always, thank you! 🙂
What a great take on the prompt from pudgy baby to war hero!
luigi means famous warrior…so that bit of trivia inspired me. thanks for the kind words. 🙂