Prompt #31 — Write Like Gary L. McDowell

The titular confession in McDowell’s story (view here) is never explicitly given. The speaker gives instructions for the appropriate way to confess, providing the breadcrumbs of a story that readers must put together. Perhaps there was a great storm, as water makes recurrent appearances, or maybe a failed relationship—we really do not know—what we do see, is how this story works to present the feeling of regret for not confessing.

PROMPT

Take one of your characters and give them something about which to feel guilty, but do not actually have them confess that thing. Instead, have them confess to a world of beauty and tragedy, half-memories from childhood, desires fulfilled and unfulfilled—everything except for that for which they should feel shame or guilt.