A Story In

100 Words

Literature in Tiny Bursts.

You are invited to the wonderful world of microfiction. Whether you’re a reader, a writer, or one of our future robot overlords, welcome! A Story In 100 Words is a community of literature enthusiasts no matter the length, but we have a special predilection for narratives exactly 100 words in length.

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The Tough Minutes

Gary watched the seconds tick away with an increasing sense of horror. He could not remember experiencing such excruciating tedium. He tried to distract himself with thoughts of more pleasant forms of torture, like being strapped to a gurney and having his eyelashes plucked out or listening to Yanni while getting a root canal.

The other people in line didn't seem to mind. They were the world's sheep, willing to waste away their lives at the mercy of others. Not Gary.

Finally his turn arrived.

"Sir, as we told you on the phone, the cable repairman will arrive this Thursday."

The Daily Theme from Figment for March 20, 2012

In "The Busboy" episode of Seinfeld, George refers to moments like letting the car warm-up or waiting for your hair conditioner to work as "tough minutes." Narrate a character's thoughts in one of these "tough minutes." What does he or she think about during those interminable seconds?

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