Our gracious host, Rochelle, asks us to get
creative in 100 words or less using this photo
for inspiration. Welcome to Friday Fictioneers.
Every town needs one who keeps watch and says nothing.
He came before the swing sets, before the trees grew tall enough for shade. Children forget he’s only bronze. They climb through his ribs, slide down his belly, hang their small hands from his railing like old friends.
He does not blink; he does not need to. His smile is not just for today’s laughter but for the joyful versions of all the yesterdays and tomorrows, the ones that repeat every September, every recess, every dusk when the last child is called home and he is left, patiently keeping watch.
NAR©2026
100 Words
This is “I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons
Everything on The Elephant’s Trunk was created by me, except where otherwise indicated. Thanks for your consideration. NAR©2017-present.
The Elephant's Trunk 
I love this; it’s a powerful read. And I love that song!
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Thanks very much. So pleased to know you liked it.
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You’re welcome 😊
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Dear Nancy,
I’m sure this watcher has inspired the imagination of many a child on the playground. I enjoyed your take on the prompt.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thanks so much, Rochelle. Anything that inspires our kids in a fun and creative way is alright by me! Have a lovely week.
Shalom
🕊️
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A lovely story
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So pleased you enjoyed it; thanks, Sadje.
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My pleasure
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What a wonderful story and song!
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I’m so pleased to know you enjoyed my story, Lisa. Thanks so much. ☺️
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Now that just might be a job for AI if it ever learns to interpret visual media.
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I have a feeling that’s not so far fetched!
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Nancy, I think you have perfectly channeled the thoughts of the actual playground sculpture. I enjoyed your story and will look a little closer at The Keeper next time I’m there.
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Thanks for a great comment, Lisa, and for a very interesting photo!
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You are welcome x2 Nancy.
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Nice one! It sounds like a wonderful life – to watch over children and protect them like that every day.
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Thanks so much for your lovely comment, Sheila.
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But does he come to life when danger appears?
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Sure …. if you want him to, James. Works for me!
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i suppose we had something like that when we were growing up: a place where we could remember and enjoy life as it went by.
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Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts, plaridel.
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He waits for another day of laughter, of the warmth of young life. Sweet 100 for a curious picture!
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Thanks much, Liz. Love your comments! ☺️
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Yes he is like a guardian- great write Nance and track 🙌
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Exactly, Ange. Thanks so much. 🥰
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I wonder what is he watches for
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The boogeyman! Thanks, Neil.
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Children need protection and it is a good thing the Watcher is around.
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Great comment, Jim. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts. 😊
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Great job N.!
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Thanks, my sister!
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Wow! Heartwarming…like an old guardian watching!!
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Wonderful analogy, Geeta! Thanks so much ☺️
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A delightful piece of imaginative story telling my friend … and a wonderful soundtrack …
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Wonderful comments, my dear friend, and a great new video, too! 🎶💙
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This one took me a while to find but in the end it’s a lyrically enjoyable song my friend 🎶🥰🤗
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Imaginative story, and I love your song choice. Video not available here, but this one is:
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Thanks for your great comments, Clive, and for changing out the video. 😁
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You’re very welcome. I love that song, and the video is amazing 😊
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Unblinking eyes never cry
when everyone has gone
knowing they will return to
embrace the outstretched arms
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Thanks for sharing your wonderful poem, Brian. ☺️
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Your welcome Nancy 😀
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A short but powerful story. It shows how courage and intelligence can overcome even the greatest cruelty. It left me reflecting on the price of freedom and on those who risked everything to resist.
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Thanks very much for a wonderful comment.
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😊🫂🤗
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