Written for Sadje’s “What Do You See” #230 – March 18, 2024
![](https://theelephantstrunk.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/arches-stockholm-city-hall-columns-city-banner.jpeg?w=1024)
The young man, rail thin and incredibly tall, ran through the courtyard like a gangling, indelicate giraffe. One hand planted firmly on his head kept his cap from flying off …. a common occurrence .… while the other hand jutting out to his side performed the function of a human rudder keeping him on course. An over-large cowl flapped disobediently from one shoulder to the other. On his feet he wore simple sandals and his spindly legs took giant strides in an exaggerated attempt to keep them on his feet.
From a distance he could have easily been mistaken for an apoplectic ostrich.
A quick glance at the sun and the shadows cast by the stone columns confirmed what the young man already knew – he was late. Again. He quickened his pace, awkwardly darting between the pillars, and spied the grated entrance to his right. He flew toward it, nearly falling flat on his face onto the cobblestones beneath his feet.
The young man flung open the gate and quickly entered, hunching over to prevent his head from hitting the doorframe. He stood for a few seconds in the shadows to collect himself, then quietly opened the chapel door and slipped into the one empty space at the end of the stone bench.
None of his brothers dared acknowledge his late arrival but he knew he would be called to task for this transgression.
NAR©2024
NB: When I saw Sadje’s photo prompt, I was immediately reminded of The Cloisters in the Bronx, NY, an extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It’s a fascinating place which I have visited many times. To take a look inside The Met Cloisters, click here.
#WDYS
This is Gregorian Chant Music – “Monks of the Monastery”
All text, graphics and videos are copyright for The Sicilian Storyteller, The Elephant’s Trunk and The Rhythm Section and is not for use by anyone without permission. NAR©2017-present.
Your tke on Sadje’s prompt image is super Nance! Very well done fantastic story!
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Thanks, CA. This was a fun one to write. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
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Your imagery is so vivid, Nancy. I really like imagining his tall, thin frame navigating through the space with comical grace!
~David
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What a brilliant description. I could see him running, cowl flapping.
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That pleases me to no end, Iris!
Thank you so much.
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You’re welcome.
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The kind of vivid description in this piece is one that creates a full scene in the mine. Quite visceral indeed. I love the story too. ❤️
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It’s very satisfying to know you enjoyed the visual aspect of my story.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts today, Lam.
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Indeed, I loved how the scene unfolded in mine heart. Feel most welcome, dear Nancy.
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How do you solve a problem like Mar-i-o? 🎶
This was so vivid, I was chuckling all the way through!
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Haha! Well played, Liz!
I had to go with a male MC; if I went with a female, it would have come across as that silly Sally Field show! 🪽😂🪽
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🎶Who has wings to fly…🎶😆
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Oh jeez! Thanks for the ear worm!
You’ll get yours! 🤣🤣
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(TREMBLING. Is this fear? Or hopeful expectation?…🤣)
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😂😂
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Monks are fascinating, Your story is excellent…
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There’s a place called Trinity Retreat Center, a Franciscan monastery/retreat house in the town next to mine which was founded by the late priest, Fr. Benedict Groeschel. It’s a little slice of heaven on earth. Every Christmas season I used to bring my boys to drop off gifts for needy kids. They loved getting cookies and candy canes from the monks who lived there.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts today.
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That is so cool. There is something about that peacefulness and serenity. Reminded me of a book, Pillars of the earth..Kenneth Follett…..
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Love the story, and the link to the Met Cloisters; I want to have lunch there.
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Isn’t it lovely? Come to NY and we’ll have lunch together overlooking the river. 😊
I think it would be so special to have a wedding there.
Thanks, D!
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It would be beautiful! 🎶💐💍
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Wonderfully descriptive, Nancy, I was praying he wouldn’t trip! As for the Gregorian Chant – fabulous.
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My thoughts exactly, Keith! I put the poor guy through so much already; no need to have him fall flat on his face! 😁
Nice, meditative music.
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Wonderful story, Nancy. This prompt reminded me of the Met cloisters too. I used to visit frequently as well. Truly enjoyed 💕💕💕
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Oh, how nice to know you’ve been to the Cloisters …. one of the most relaxing spots in all of Harlem!
Thanks for your wonderful comments, Grace! 🌞
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Absolutely. I loved visiting the Cloisters. Always a pleasure 💕
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Sounds like Vespers, at the end of the day. Lots of latecomers there…
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Nailed it, John. In fact, the working name was “Vespers”.
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I’ve spent some time at a monastery, and Vespers is at the end of their work day, so frequently they’re still changing from their work clothes into their habits for prayer. They start with whoever’s there and the others join in progress.
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Great story, Nancy!💓
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Thank you, Cindy. I was picturing Ichabod Crane!
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What an excellent story Nancy. Loved to description of the young man. Thanks for joining in.
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Thank you, Sadje.
I enjoyed describing that young, perpetually late monk!
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So vivid. You made him come to n life.
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