Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Weekly Scribblings #12: Nevertheless, She Persisted

“She was warned. She was given an explanation. Nevertheless, she persisted.

Three short lines, fired over social media in response to questions of why Senator Elizabeth Warren was silenced on the floor of the United States Senate, for daring to read aloud the words of Coretta Scott King. As this message was transmitted across the globe, it has become a galvanizing cry for people of all genders in recognition of the struggles that women have faced throughout history.

Three short lines, which read as if they are the opening passage to an epic and ageless tale.”

I borrowed the quote from the description of Nevertheless, She Persisted, a flash fiction collection published by Tor.com, in celebration of International Women’s Day. The free e-book includes stories by Seanan McGuire, Jo Walton, Catherynne M. Valente and other Science Fiction/Fantasy writers. Each story uses the three sentences quoted at the beginning of this post.

For today’s prompt, I invite everyone to write new poetry or prose which includes the words, “She was warned. She was given an explanation. Nevertheless, she persisted.” Use the sentences at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of your entry. Use them consecutively or in separate paragraphs or stanzas. All forms and genres are welcomed. If you choose prose, let your story or article or letter… be 369 words or fewer.  

Please add the direct link to your contribution to Mr. Linky. This prompt will remain open until next Wednesday. Visit other poets and storytellers. See what their muses brewed out of the iconic pronouncement. Share your thoughts about their inked feels.

Follow this link, or click the cover below, to download the free e-book.

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250781680

13 comments:

  1. I did get the book, I love it like mad, and I think this is a terrific prompt. It was also perfect to help me address an issue that has me burn with rage ... and freeze in despair.

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    1. I enjoyed the stories, too, especially "Astronaut" and "Persephone". And I also found them helpful as a way to deal with current issues.

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  2. I wrote some prose this week, as I'm trying to vary everything I do, otherwise I will go stir crazy! I will download the book shortly.

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    1. Ink is very good company these days. But without variety, even the best of companions can become stale. So I totally get it!

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  3. Good morning, Stay healthy, stay safe

    much love...

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  4. Seems I'm always writing a shallow bit of fluff. Now I've done it again. Seems to be where my muse leads me. Plan to check out the book shortly. Great challenge.

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    1. There you go, selling yourself short again! That was no 'shallow bit of fluff'! A serious topic and not trivialised, albeit handled with your usual deft, light touch.

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