Introduction
This untitled and unfinished, starting with “I’m writing this with a piece of pencil on the backs of old . . .”, story delves into the reflections of a resilient and determined protagonist. The narrative is set in a sweltering environment, where the protagonist recounts his harrowing experiences and brushes with death. Through his writing, he reveals a mysterious journey to an unknown land, L’Gonda, offering a glimpse into a tale of adventure and survival. 250 words.
This fragment reveals a tale rich with past adventures and a hint of unexplored territories, setting the stage for a story of resilience and mysterious expeditions.
Summary
The story begins with the protagonist writing on the backs of old invoices and scraps of paper. He mentions a Portuguese companion who doubts anyone will believe his story, but the protagonist is undeterred. Writing serves as a distraction from the oppressive heat and the monotony of lying in a hammock, struggling to survive with minimal care from a forgetful attendant.
The protagonist reflects on his situation, dismissing claims of delirium from a French doctor. He confidently asserts that he will survive, despite severe injuries—a gash in his ribs and a leg that is in a dire condition. He recounts past near-death experiences to emphasize his resilience. He survived a goring by a steer on a drive to Dodge City, which was so severe that his companions began preparing for his burial. Another incident in Nevada involved a horse falling on him, breaking both his legs and most of his ribs. Each time, he defied the odds and survived, and he is determined to do so again.
The narrative shifts to the mysterious country of L’Gonda, a place unknown to the world. The protagonist and his companion, John Stalbridge Kirby, ventured there. Kirby, the son of a lord, is briefly introduced, hinting at a significant and possibly perilous journey that the two men undertook together.
Characters
- Narrator (Unnamed): The main character, a resilient and determined individual who has survived numerous life-threatening injuries and is currently recovering in a hot, oppressive environment.
- Portuguese Companion (Unnamed): A skeptical figure who doubts the veracity of the protagonist’s story and believes no one will believe it.
- French Doctor (Unnamed): A medical professional who believes the protagonist is delirious and unlikely to survive his injuries.
- John Stalbridge Kirby: The protagonist’s companion on the journey to L’Gonda, described as the son of a lord, suggesting a background of nobility and adventure.
Published in:
- PICTURES IN THE FIRE, REH Foundation Press, June 2018
