Listen: Lorelei
Lorelei called. Her voice nagged incessantly, a wavering and haunting sound that lingered. Always present beneath my consciousness, but in my dreams it became urgent. On the third day I relented and answered.
She sat on the lichen-covered rock, hair draping like a curtain. It floated on the water’s surface making it difficult to tell where water ended and naiad began – perhaps she was both one and same.
“You are a daughter of the earth, why continue this resistance?”
I sighed. “I cannot give what you want of me.”
She smiled. “It is always choice. The time is near. Choose.”










[...] how it works: My story is here. When you comment, post a link to yours. Then comment and add your link to the other [...]
[...] inspired by the photo prompt from FridayFictioneeers. Read Madison Woods’ story here ( http://madisonwoods.wordpress.com/flash-fiction/lorelei-100-words-audio/ ), leave a comment and then begin reading all the varied submissions. Endlessly fascinating. [...]
Dear Madison,
I loved your story and, of course, demand to know what choice must be made. Your worlds are always so perfectly rendered, each brush stroke illuminating the scene so that it springs to life in our mind’s eye. I can’t wait to buy your books. Happy days ahead.
(The MPG file went into a permanent fit of …buffering. No sound and fury forthcoming. could be my computer up herer on the summit. hard to say. good luck with that.)
Aloha,
Doug
Here’s the link to my world. A bit of work is required of my readers this week, but might prove worth the effort.
http://ironwoodwind.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/ask-ulysses/
Thanks Doug. I plan to have the first book finished by end of this summer
Thanks for the feedback on the audio file, too. I’ve made a change to it, maybe it’ll work now.
I have time for reading one story and yours is first in line. When I get more time later today, I’ll read some more. Off now to read and then to the task list for the day…
I like the mystery present here, though I’ll admit that some of the mystery for me is that I don’t fully understand the situation!
Though perhaps that’s part of what makes it such an engaging piece of flash fiction.
I like the idea of the audio file, though it wouldn’t get past ‘buffering’ for me. However, using Realplayer I managed to download the file and give it a listen.
Here’s a link to mine (on my freshly-created WordPress blog, for ease of access):
http://garybaileywriting.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/fridayfictioneers-in-the-water/
Thanks for the feedback niiko47, I’ll try to fix that audio file. It’s so hard to tell a complete story in 100 words, so mine are usually just snippets of larger tales. I’ve seen some of the fictioneers pull it off though. Heading your way next!
Oh, Madison! This is WONDERFUL! I couldn’t get the audio to work, however. But the story itself is just brilliant. And you certainly know your subject very well! <3
This is my link for the week: http://quillshiv.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/reading-tree-leaves/
I think I fixed the audio now, but thanks for letting me know it didn’t work. I made an audio for last week’s too (retroactively), but I’ll bet it doesn’t open either.
Glad you liked the story! Lorelei is a character in Symbiosis, the wip I’m trying to have finished for pitching at Chicon at the end of summer.
Neat concept. Like a siren? No, wait. I had to look up naiad to get it. You said a lot with so few words. I’ll have to see if I can hear you when I’m on the computer later.
I found in participating that it’s really difficult to write something in 100 words and have it say what you want. Here’s my link: http://unduecreativity.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/skipping-stones
The site is mature as a warning to weary reader.
Haha, yes sometimes it’s very difficult for me to get my point across in 100 words and often I fail miserably. But that’s the challenge of it
Heading your way next.
[...] therefore it must be time for ‘Friday Fictioneers’. The picture prompt is posted by Madison and the challenge is to write a 100 word [...]
A lovely, almost melodic story Madison.
The intrigue comes in the final word – ‘Choose’
No wonder these very short stories sometimes go under the heading of ‘Hint Fiction’ – certainly a hint of lots to come in yours.
Here’s mine –
http://mjshorts.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/the-final-step-a-100-word-story/
Yes, and a lot of mine are just snippets of much larger pictures so they *are* just hints. Heading your way next
Madison, I think that’s one of the most beautiful and haunting pieces I’ve seen you write. I love it.
I’m afraid I”m going to have to miss out on all the fun this week. Too much to do with the OWL meeting, then I’m straight off to Santa Fe, where I doubt I’ll have internet. Will miss you all and your fantastic flashes! See you next week!
I’m going to be driving out very early tomorrow morning for the OWL meeting, since I didn’t get away to stay overnight. I love Santa Fe but have only passed through and didn’t get to stop. Have fun! Thanks for reading
Oh! We’ll miss you Jan! (Also… I agree about beautiful and haunting — seriously).
[...] A story inspired by this photo provided by Madison Woods. [...]
I like your story. There could definitely be a longer piece here.
My story is “The quest” (http://wp.me/p1WuR1-vw). Critiques always welcome. Enjoy.
Thanks! Heading your way next
Hey, I am the new guy from Africa, I find this a grand metaphor…seeing the photo prompt was wondering what story to make of this ‘spring pool’…and I must say your story is spot-on. Thanks. Here is what I could do with my head…had to extract it from an upcoming story about my national service year:
https://seewilliams.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/stuck-the-other-side-of-valour-100words-flash-fiction/
Ha! You did jump right in with a story – good. Heading your way next. Glad you enjoyed mine
I really like this one Madison! The haunted call of the sea, the vision of lichen draped hair and a choice to be made. I want more!!
Here is my haunting tale~
Slipped Away – 125 Word Flash Fiction http://wp.me/p1un5Q-uK
Thanks Susie
Heading your way next!
This is the most beautiful post I’ve seen of yours so far. It feels like the opening to a longer story. Which is OK. These 100-word challenges shouldn’t be limited to writing a complete story. That they can also prompt one to launch into a much longer story is not only OK but can sometimes lead to something great.
This week instead of one of my own 100-word stories I’d like to showcase a new furious fiction by Susan Sink. It can be found here: http://furiousfictions.com.
Thanks, Joe, I’m glad you liked it
I’m heading over to read Susan’s piece now.
I should add that Susan Sink’s piece is a short-short TRUE story.
Here’s my offering for today, and I’m looking forward to reading my weekly fix of Friday Fictioneers’ flash fiction.
http://mymusings-maggie.blogspot.com/2012/02/friday-flash-fiction.html
Thanks for joining us today, heading your way in a few minutes
I wanted to apologize for not visiting with everyone last week. So before I throw 100 more words down, I’m going to try and cram some time catching up…at least before next Friday. Humbly, Robin
I’ll be watching for you
K.D.’s been scarce lately too, lots of projects going on.
Dear Robin,
I’m in the same boat with you. I’ll keep bailing and watch out for you.
Aloha,
Doug
http://ironwoodwind.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/ask-ulysses/
Beautiful piece. It left me thirsty for more.
I’m working on the Beast today (Connie’s building), don’t know how many I’ll get to read, but will hit as many as I can.
here’s mine http://russellgayer.blogspot.com/
Hi Russel,
I am unable to comment on your blog. Here is what I was trying to say there:
“A lot of people have gone down the memory lane with this prompt!
But each one in their own unique and different styles…
Very different from your usual writings… but equally good!”
It’s refusing to accept my comment on your site so here’s what it was: I loved the rural, Ozarky feel too, but I am so glad *this* grandma isn’t having to wash diapers in the creek! I liked the way you drew comparisons between the rustic rock and grandma.
[...] and leave our links for others to read. Madison’s page and all the other entries can be found HERE, so go take a look. If you want to try it yourself, check the rules on the FF link above. This [...]
Hi Madison,
I loved most not being able to tell where the water ended and the naiad began – very sublime bit of writing. And the mystery of choosing, which I read as the choice between environmental awareness and technological progress. But that’s just me.
Here’s mine:
http://repuestodelatabla.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/friday-fiction-100-word-story-12-gravestone/
That was my favorite part, too
Thanks! Headed your way…
Nice job on the audio version of the story. I could “see” the story so well listening to it. I hope you do it again.
Thanks! I’m glad you listened and enjoyed it. I plan to do this for everything until I am totally comfortable hearing myself talk. Hahaha, eventually maybe someone will have to tell me to be quiet. And I will be once I get the pitching nailed.
I loved this piece. Perfect atmosphere and gives a wonderful sense of those worlds just at the edge of the mundane. I particularly enjoyed your handling of the naiad. I would sincerely like to read more of this. Now I want to visit the location in the photo!
Here’s my story:
http://andyfloodwritersblog.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/the-summoning/
Oops, forgot to mention, the audio file opened fine in a new tab, played with Quicktime plugin with Firefox browser. Sounds good
Very brave of you.
Thanks for that feedback. It’s part of a larger plan to get over a fear of public speaking. Haha, figured I’d wade in slowly.
Thanks – Lorelei is one of my favorite characters. Haha, the photo is at the creek below the house where I live. It’s in a great location for meditation – when I can make the dogs leave me alone.
I really like how you’ve added audio to your stories! And the story, was good!!
Thanks Jeannie
I’m enjoying doing the audio far more than I thought I would, lol.
So many many melancholy stories! Here is my addition to the weeping pot.
http://www.wakefieldmahon.com/1/post/2012/02/down-by-the-river-friday-fictioneers.html
BTW I loved your lush description and promise of an epic story to come.
Thanks Wakefield
I’m heading your way next, but first I have to take a break, LOL. Lots of stories today, and now it’s tonight already!
[...] Thanks to Madison Woods, as ever, for a challenging picture inspriation this week. Please do take a look at the over stories linked in the comments section of her blog. http://madisonwoods.wordpress.com/flash-fiction/lorelei-100-words-audio/ [...]
[...] courtesy of Madison Woods. Head on over there to see the picture prompt, and read a bunch of other imaginative super short [...]
Morning everyone,
Madison, there is some kind of magic haze surrounding your story this morning. It almost seems like we are looking at the reflection of a narrative, if that makes any sense. Enchanting.
Here’s mine: http://cleveroldowl.wordpress.com/2012/02/16/friday-fictioneers-stone-stream-and-leaves/
We,re heading out to the cottage for the weekend, so I,ll get to reading and commenting early next week.
Enjoy yourselves.
Hi Madison! Your description of Lorelei was stunning and I enjoyed the mystery in your story – what does she want from the narrator? If I would change anything I would just add the extra words to make her language more natural. I don’t know if this was a word count thing or a deliberate ‘language’ choice, but I found it a bit strange, and in such a beautifully flowing piece, slightly disruptive.
Here’s mine:
http://elmowrites.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/friday-fiction-13/
There’s even a poll for people to join in the conversation!
Off to read everyone else’s now…
Thanks Elmo. I think I will give the mc a more natural voice, but the Lorelei has a very formal speech. I appreciate that suggestion. These characters interact in another story of mine so that’s definitely something I’ll want to address.
Lovely piece, Madison, intriguing and flowing nicely. I like the nagging at the beginning, because the end left me with a nagging of “Choose what?” I think you sometimes like to leave us wondering, which is something I do enjoy in these short snippets – they leave the imagination open to fly.
Your audio worked fine for me on WMP, but it’s an mp4, and I had previously had to download a codec for the player for that format. Otherwise, i think it’s quicktime. It’s a nice idea, putting it in audio – I listen to a lot of audiobooks to give my eyes a rest.
I know what you mean about needing practice speaking – sometimes I feel I speak so seldom my voice gets rusty! Maybe I will try this at some point, if I can figure out how.
Sorry to ramble – here is my piece, with one small edit at the advice of a kind observer:
http://writetuit.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/flash-friday-alive/
Hi Judee, glad you enjoyed the story, and thanks for that feedback on the audio file .
Heading over to your blog now.
[...] brought to you by Madison Woods. Her story and links to the many other fictioneers can be found here. Share this:EmailLike this:LikeBe the first to like this post. Flash FictionFriday [...]
Madison, I love the way the “choice” was left unknown and up to the imagination of the reader. I haven’t had a chance to try out the audio file but will get to it by the end of the day.
Here’s the link to mine, 50 words as usual:
http://postcardfiction.com/2012/02/17/flash-friday-simple-pleasures/
Heading your way next Janet, and then I’m heading to bed. It’s been a long day here, but tomorrow I’ll be moving through the rest of the stories.
I didn’t see the audio file the first time, but it worked fine when I did notice it. Very interesting to hear the voice you have in your head when writing, it adds to the understanding of the writing. And the story seemed much longer when read; I guess when I’m reading it, it flashes by. So, a good experiment, though I remain tied to the words on a page. Thanks for that!
BTW, the more I reread your story, the more I like it – one of your very best.
I don’t think audio could ever replace words read on a page. When I’m driving, though, I think I’d like to listen to audio books. Thanks for the feedback, Carlos.
Cool idea–I love the audio addition. As always, it’s a story that leaves you with a desire for more! Well done! Mine is at http://vsta.pr/zMx9VT.
Thanks, V.L. I’m glad you liked the audio too. Heading your way!
Interesting experiment. I prefer to read the story though, but like you say, it is good experience and, like our flash fiction writing, the more we do it, the better we get.
Unlike Carlos, I do not feel that this is one of your best. But Carlos already made me rewrite mine, so my first attempt was definitely not one of my best.
Here is my second attempt:
http://fictionvictimtoo.blogspot.com
yours,
Lindaura
I don’t think listening to a story can replace the experience I get from reading it. But I am enjoying making the audios and think there’s a niche for them out there. Plus it is helping me become less self-conscious.
Thanks for your feedback – I think I went to yours already but forgot to comment here. Now I can’t remember if I left a comment at yours either!
Hi Madison,
I really liked your story and its setup. I liked that she resisted until the last moment when a choice was demanded of her. Nicely done.
Here’s mine: http://siobhanmuir.blogspot.com/2012/02/just-right-guy-100words-for.html
As always, nothing explicit despite the warning.
Siobhan
Thanks Siobhan
Heading your way next!
This is nice! Has a magical, mystical feel to it!
I wrote mine before there was a place to comment the link here… so here it is!
http://faitaccompli.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/moments-gone-and-past/
Forgot to mention… The audio is pretty good too Madison! Great idea!
Thank you – I’m glad you could feel the magical aura because that was my intention.
Very innovative to incude the audio file. It played perfectly. I’ve had thoughts of creating a novel that would be multi-media, including audio, photos and video. The story is fascinating, and though you never use the word mermaid, I knew within the first few words. Another nice trip into the nether world of your wild imagination.
Here’s mine: bridgesareforburning.wordpress.com/
Thanks, Ron. Your multimedia idea sounds intriguing! Heading your way now.
Love the story and the audio! I want to know what the choice is. Here is the link to mine. http://avscott.wordpress.com/fiction/the-enchanted-tales-of-iveria-100-words/
Wonderful, smooth, melodic, the 100 words flowed smoothly while still managing to suck me. I loved it.
Here’s the link to mine http://teschoenborn.com/
I love this story. Eerie, yet compelling. Leaves me wanting to know more which is just perfect!
Here’s my link:
http://hugmore.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/home-a-friday-fictioneers-post/
Madison, that was a beautiful and haunting story.
Here’s mine:
http://threedescriptors.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/flash-fiction-6/
I’m finally at your story link miq! Glad you enjoyed mine
I always like the premise of a character facing a choice. You’ve given just enough information to intrigue me about that choice and, just as compelling, why the daughter of the earth feels she cannot give. Lots to explore. And once again, a great prompt.
Here’s mine: http://wp.me/s1Tjpv-passage
[...] more flashes prompted by this week’s photo, and to learn more about flash fiction, visit Madison Woods and explore. Tell People:EmailDiggLike this:LikeBe the first to like this post. Filed under [...]
[...] This is part of a weekly Flash Fiction exercise put forth by Madison Woods, wherein a photo-prompt engages writers in creating a 100-word story based on an image such as the one above. You can read Madison’s story here: http://madisonwoods.wordpress.com/flash-fiction/lorelei-100-words-audio/ [...]
Loving it as usual, Madison. Thanks for the prompt and the intriguing story. I’ll be doing the rounds later this evening but for now, here’s my link: http://thecolorlime.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/imaginary-friend/
I love these stories! Madison, yours was so unique and the audio was cool. Great idea/practice right before pitch season!
I’m off to a meeting and will comment on others tonight and this weekend. You can read mine here: http://banterwithbeth.blogspot.com/
Thanks Beth. Sorry to be so long in getting to your story, but we’ve had a lot of participants and I haven’t had much time! It was very nice to meet you in real-life yesterday
Great touch of adding an audio of the story! I was curious when you said you’d add a little something to this week’s story, and it’s a great idea. Not sure if I will ever add my voice to my stories, though.
Here’s my contribution -> http://wp.me/puGD7-Fo
[...] into Madison Woods’ weekly challenge again, this time with some words toward my newly christened WIP, If a Tree Falls. Here’s the [...]
Love it. I went the naiad route, too.
Would love to hear the audio, but I’m sneaking this in at work, lol.
http://www.caramichaels.com/defiantlyliterate/2012/02/17/fridayfictioneers-021712/
LOL, I sneak so much of my reading and writing time in at work. One day it might be the ax for me if I don’t quit that. Heading your way finally.
[...] here‘s Madison’s [...]
Found it, LOL. (I had trouble getting here
) – here’s the link to mine – http://plowright.wordpress.com/2012/02/18/fridayfictioneers-flashfriday-no-4/
Really great. Love the 2nd paragraph. Here’s mine: http://wp.me/sVRF7-struggle
Love the imagery with the hair blending into the water! Lovely photo, too! Thanks for keeping us going, Madison -
I’m a bit late to the party, but here is my Friday (Night) Flash:
http://kbnelson.wordpress.com/2012/02/17/friday-flash-change-of-plans/
I’m sorry I’m late with my entry! Here it is: http://sarahthestoryteller.wordpress.com
I loved your story. I like how you always end it on a surprise note
Love,
Sarah
Just now reaching your story Sarah.
Hi Madison: Loved it. Just like you to leave us wanting more. Had to look up naiad. Here’s mine:
http://www.triplemoonstar.blogspot.com
Running late on reading, Lora – just now getting to yours.
Well, better late than never. Here’s my story: http://wp.me/p24aJS-33
On my way to read the others now.
Nice setting, Madison. There is nothing else to which I could lichen it.
Thank you.
Wish there had been more to read. Gonna go back and see if I missed some. I’m not an agent, but from what I saw==whoever said you need an IP lawyer vs an agent doesn’t know what they’re talking about. Feel like I must have missed something, if not than that’s a really odd thing to say.
Actually the comment about needing or not needing an agent has nothing to do with the post where the comment was left. That’s just where the comment is, so I directed for input to that post. and that comment I referred to is on the other post for Friday. This page has way too many comments for me to expect anyone to wade through looking for one comment in particular.
I’d love to have input from agents on the topic of ‘what agents do’ to either dispel or confirm whether an author could really use one (not just me), or whether a lawyer can fill the same role.
Thanks for commenting though, even if you aren’t an agent. Maybe if you know one, you can direct them to the link I tweeted earlier? Thanks
Sent from my iPhone… You should have seen the typos I *did* catch!
I’m late, but had fun anyway. Here’s the link to mine
http://shirleymccann.blogspot.com/2012/02/friday-fictioneers-although-bit-late.html
Hi – glad to see you join us Shirley! When I get home tonight I’ll be able to read your story. Hope you join us again this week. I’ll be posting the photo in the morning and on Friday we’ll link to our stories from my story page for that day.
After that final line, I have a mental image of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man wondering through the woods. Probably not what you intended, but fun nonetheless!
I like the audio, that was a nice touch.