Crossroads

Avatar Author: Bob Liddil I am an author of science fiction, general fiction short stories, poetry, and non-fiction. I have been published in several genres, including fantasy and poetry, as well as non fiction. At one time I published my own c... Read Bio

A hot Mississippi sun beat down on a boy trudging west along a back road. The guitar he carried was impossibly heavy, yet he bore it with the determination of someone possessed. His face was streaked where drops of sweat trickled down. His legs burned from the effort of walking. Still, onward he went.

Finally, he came to a crossroads. Underneath a live oak stood a tall Creole man dressed all in white, holding a gold walking stick and wearing a white top hat.

“You don’t look like the devil to me,” the boy said wearily, “I have an appointment with him.”

“I here for you,” the man replied. “You no need sell your soul to him, mon.”

“You’re wrong,” the boy said. "I have to play and I can’t do it on my own. Let’s just say it’s not an option.”

“Play for me,” The Creole said.

Soon, a sweet blues tune rang like a bell at each note the boy struck.

“You go home. You no need him.”

The boy knew he was right. He turned without a word and walked away from the crossroads.

“Good luck, Elvis,” said the Creole man.

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Comments (4 so far!)

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  1. Avatar Mostly Harmless {LoA}

    Is it just me that was reminded of Morgan Freeman in Bruce Almighty be the guy under the tree?

    Anyway, a really good story – it started a little slowly with the ‘woe betide the poor boy’s legs’ bit, but I see why it was there… And as soon as he reaches the tree I was truly captivated.

    Great dialogue and some real intrigue around the Creole – strong storytelling here for sure – good work! MH :)

  2. Avatar Mr.Gabriel (LoA)

    I was thinking the same thing, Ed.

    Anyway, good way of putting that line in without making it forced.

  3. Ahfl_icon THX 0477

    Lovely ode to a great performer. You had me at Mississippi.

  4. Avatar ElshaHawk (LoA)

    awesome characters! and what a funny twist to throw in Elvis. I too thought of Morgan Freeman.. hee hee.

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