WELCOME TO FRIDAY FICTIONEERS!
🙂 Two years ago this week, I posted my first flash fiction after seeing Madison Woods’ notice on Facebook. I’m amazed at how fast the time has gone and how Friday Fictioneers has grown! 😀
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Henry David Thoreau said it best.
“It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”
THE CHALLENGE:
Write a one hundred word story that has a beginning, middle and end. (No one will be ostracized for going a few words over the count.)
THE KEY:
MAKE. EVERY. WORD. COUNT.
THE RULES:
- Copy your URL to the Linkz collection. You’ll find the tab following the photo prompt. It’s the little white box to the left with the blue froggy guy. Click on it and follow directions. This is the best way to get the most reads and comments.
- MAKE SURE YOUR LINK IS SPECIFIC TO YOUR FLASH.
- While our name implies “fiction only” it’s perfectly Kosher to write a non-fiction piece as long as it meets the challenge of being a complete story in 100 words.
- **IT’S NOT A RACE TO SEE WHO CAN POST FIRST. TAKE YOUR TIME. EDIT. POLISH. THEN POST.**
- 😉
- ***PLEASE MAKE NOTE IN YOUR BLOG IF YOU PREFER NOT TO RECEIVE CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM.***
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- REMINDER: This page is “FRIDAY FICTIONEERS CENTRAL” and is NOT the place to promote political or religious views. Also, you are responsible for the content of your story and policing comments on your blog. You have the right to delete any you consider offensive.
- 🙂
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Should someone have severe or hostile differences of opinion with another person it’s my hope that the involved parties would settle their disputes in private.
- Like us on Facebook
My story follows the photo and link tool. I enjoy honest comments and welcome constructive criticism. 
*There is only one photo prompt. Any photos appearing after my story go with MY STORY and are NOT in any way a prompt!
Genre: Historical Fiction
Word Count: 99
To escape Paris gossip, a pair of lovers spent the winter of 1838-1839 on the island of Mallorca.
FROM MALLORCA WITH LOVE
“George, let me read this to you.
“‘Estimado Señor,
“‘To have a couple living outside the bonds of holy matrimony under my roof brings shame to my head. Your woman’s cigar smoking and wearing of the man’s clothes is a sin.
“‘All this I have tolerated for the privilege of hosting such a celebrated musician.
“‘While you have my sympathy, your disease puts the island in danger. Please burn the linens and leave.”
Frédéric Chopin lit George’s cigar, set fire to the letter and tossed it on the bed.
“Cherie, I am afraid we must do as he asks.”
Frédéric Chopin succumbed to the dreaded Consumption (Tuberculosis) 17 October 1849 at age 39.
Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin at age 34. A novelist, she went by her pen name “George Sand.”
The only thing better than hearing Nocturne in C-Sharp Minor on piano is savoring its sweetness on piano and violin. If you have an extra five minutes, for your listening pleasure (and mine):
Rochelle Wisoff-Fields-Addicted to Purple 
Wow. It’s amazing how fast the time goes. It’s been over a year since I started my own photo challenge and it doesn’t seem that long. My first attempt was the spiral staircase.
I had a grandad who died of Tuberculosis, and my sister survived it. This is spot on and I like the way you have told it Rochelle. Thank you for taking up the reigns and hosting Friday Fictioneers.
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Dear Al,
It has gone fast, hasn’t it? And it’s certainly been more than I envisioned.
Thank you for your comments on my story, glad you liked.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Love your historical fiction writing. Puts a side to real people that you wouldn’t normally think about. It’s always lovely to give bigots exactly what they want! (It never turns out in their favor, it seems).
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Dear Hala,
It would be nice to think that the bigots always got their due, wouldn’t it?
Thank you for your kind comments.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Great story with an insight into Fred and George’s life. My first husband had TB as a child, so all our children were immunised soon after they were born.
NB. You might want to delete the extra ‘to’ from your first sentence 🙂
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Dear Liz,
I really didn’t think TB was around these days. Shows how much I know. Glad you liked the story and thank you for the word save. 😉 The excess “to” has been removed…in less than two seconds, too.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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What a great tale of both history, xenophobia and the dreaded death of the past. My father got tuberculosis in his youth (before there was any cure), but miraculously he survived. I heard so much about these times when this dreaded disease
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Dear Björn,
I’m glad your father survived. In grade school the school nurse administered annual TB tests. In American history, immigrants were tested for the disease at Ellis Island and turned away if infected.
Thank you for stopping by. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Rochelle,
you have a flair for historical fiction (or at least stories based on true events.) I didn’t realize he died so young. I feel like investigating this more, especially “George Sand”.
-David
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Dear David,
Historical fiction is my favorite genre, but I guess it goes without saying. Finding these little nuggets is great fun. as for George, she could be a story in herself. What a character.
Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Dear Rochelle
As usual your flair for historical fiction hits the right note. (Sorry, couldn’t resist)
I have always been fascinated by the story of Chopin and George Sand and you have given it a new twist. The way you have used the letter to set out their story – his illness, her wearing of male clothing – very cleverly done, one of your best I feel.
Take care
Dee
PS – Thank you for using one of my photos, it was a real surprise to see it at the top of your post.:)
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Dear Dee,
Glad you didn’t resist. 😉 I always enjoy a pun fitly spoken.
George Sand was new to me prior to writing this story. I’ve long been a fan of Chopin’s music, but never spent time finding out about the man. Now I have to separate who he was from what he created.
Thank you for your glowing comments and for the photo.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Dear Rochelle,
He and Peter Townsend would have gotten along famously.
I love your story (cool title) and how it wasn’t written only for your enjoyment, but for your reader’s. Someone recently told me that they write quickly and for themselves, not for the readers. They admitted this was selfish, but said they had no choice and added, “It’s what I do.” I think this comment may have inadvertently hit on the reason why many of the stories posted on Friday Fictioneers leave the reader feeling as if they have been taken advantage of.
Your care, craft, and attention to detail are top notch and are matched only by their consistent appearance in each week’s story. You choose to write for the reader, and it shows.
Mahalo and Aloha,
Doug
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Dear Doug,
My muse was particularly creative on that title, eh?
Certainly a writer should write for his or her enjoyment, but if not for the reader also, what’s the point?
As always, I’m warmed by your comments and friendship. Thank you for your input and encouragement.
You better, your better, you bet. 😉
B’vahkeshah and Shalom,
Rochelle
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A beautiful snippet of history once again!! I feel your 100 words always make me learn something new about the world.
And congratulations on 2 years!! Hopefully we’re all still here madly writing in another 2 🙂
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Dear Jessie,
Only time will tell where we’ll all be in two years. 😉 At any rate, thanks for coming aboard. Glad you liked my story. I always learn something myself when I research for a story and I love sharing it.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thanks for the history lesson…. very interesting. Makes me want to read more about this relationship.
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Dear Ruth,
Not sure if it’s my age or just an awakening, but history is something I really enjoy. This story was new to me. I’d like to know more about the relationship myself. I love the music, but I’m not so sure I’d have liked the man. 😉
Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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What a bitter sweet piece of romance Rochelle and the added flavour of real time history just upped the value quotient!As always,you have wowed me with your story-entertaining,informative and I loved the sassy feel at the end 😉 Now off to post my weekly 100-missed last week and am still suffering from the lack of my “dose”,lol!
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Oh Rochelle,I forgot! Congratulations on your successful completion of two years of FF and though I have been here for only 2/3 of those 24 lovely months,am thrilled to be a part of this community:-)May you celebrate many such FF anniversaries in future and may the tribe keep growing ((hugs))Loads of love xx
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Dear Atreyee,
Please forgive me for not answering your lovely comments sooner. No excuses. I thought I had answered and missed it. 😦 Thank you for the gentle nudge.
I truly appreciate your presence and participation in Friday Fictioneers. I know what you mean about “dose”. I have to have my weekly fix, too.
Thank you,
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Ha!ha!We are such junkies and no issues-I just wondered about your silence cos it was so unlike you,thanks again and love ya! 🙂
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The letter captured the horrified pomposity of the host to perfection. Not to mention Chopin’s languorous response. Historical fiction as only you can do it, Rochelle. A story with a difference – I always look forward to your take.
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Dear Sandra,
I’m basking in the warmth and affirmation of your comments. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Very interesting and well-written story, Rochelle. My husbands father was a doctor in India and contracted TB.He healed but after that was only allowed to treat TB patients. He contracted it again and eventually died of the disease in 1943 when my husband was ten years old .
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Dear Patricia,
it seems I erroneously thought of TB as one of those diseases that had been eradicated. Thank you for sharing your story with me.
Glad you liked my story.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Magnificent Rochelle, I love Chopin! I can play part of the Nocturne on the piano – such a sad song, but beautiful! Your story is really good and very well written. I know 1 hundred and 20 years ago that proprietors frowned on unmarried clients and with TB, it would have been worse because he was putting others in danger. – I also have a son with latent TB that is in remission from being in the army in Kosovo.
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Dear Nan,
I’m sending hopes and prayers that your son’s TB stays in remission.
Thank you for your lovely comments. I’m a bit envious of your being able to play any part of the Nocturne. One of my favorite pieces of music ever.
In my novels Nocturne in C-Sharp minor is practically another character.
Thanks again,
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Rochelle – Today is April 15, 2014. Is there anyway you could email me, I have a question. However, if you don’t have the time to converse with your ‘kids’ then let me know next week if you have a chance then. I have listened once again to the Chopin piece “Nocturne” and remember the first time I heard it and thought how lovely it was, not realizing who had written it. Thanks Rochelle – and please if you don’t have time – just ignore this. Nan 🙂
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Interesting little story. I love Chopin’s music. I’ll have to come back with something, got to think of a way to weave this into my dystopian story…hmmm….:)
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Dear Faith,
I love Chopin’s music, but after the research from this story, I’ll have to separate the man from the music. 😉 Thank you for commenting.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I’ve not done any research into the man behind the music. Sadly, I have to admit that I haven’t researched any composers. I think they’re music is something that can be appreciated as the voice of their soul. Now, though, I think I might.
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Dear FF,
I haven’t done a lot of research on composers either. Fascinating. It’s interesting to read about them. They were the rock stars of their day.
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This was fabulous. I was not aware of the connection between Chopin & George Sands and this was a wonderfully imaginative piece of what might have been.
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Dear Subroto,
Thank for such lovely compliments.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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And you inspired me to do a little fan tribute to one of my favourite authors. Though I must admit the temptation to kill someone was quite great.
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I knew it was going to be George Sands! What a dynamic duo. I did not know that Chopin & Sands had hooked up! In fact I did not know George’s real name. So, once again Dear Rochelle… thanks for the education. I loved the tossing the burning letter on the bed!
Rochelle… I’m listening to some nice music as I go back to see when Madison Woods got hold of me. Ah, here it is… March 4, 2012. It wasn’t even fiction, but a memoir… I had yet to write a piece of fiction, even though I wanted to try. Here is my first FF entry… http://tedstrutz.com/2012/03/04/friday-fictioneers-1-semi-precious-gememoirs/ Fun to see who liked and commented… dear ‘friends’ now, some still here. I wrote a few more ‘memoirs’ and on April 14, 2012 my first piece of fiction at Friday Fictioneers. So we started at the same time. Thank you so much for keeping the writing lamp lit each week.
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Dear Ted,
I didn’t know a thing about George Sand until I started following the threads. I, too, received an education. 😉
So you preceded my by a little over a month. It’s fun to take those little trips down Memory Lane.
Blame Doug, Kent and my husband. They talked me into it. But then, I couldn’t let it die, could I?
Thank you for your comments.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I know someone who has TB – luckily they’re a little kinder now and she got to keep her linen! Another great little history lesson this week 🙂
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Dear EL,
Thank you for coming by and commenting. Glad you liked and still glad you’re back amongst us. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Wow! Two years? It does go by fast. I really enjoyed your story, and before reading it I had never heard of George Sand. Thank you for taking the time to research and share this with us. You always put so much thought and care into your stories. I love the little twist at the end and the title is perfect. 🙂
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Dear Lisa,
It doesn’t seem like two years could’ve passed so quickly. After I’d written my first few flash fictions, my husband suggested I print them off and put them in a notebook. I did and that notebook’s gotten pretty full.
I learned a lot with this piece, too. Following one research thread always leads me to many unexpected places. Great fun and happy to share. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I can always count on you to teach me something, darling. Love your insight into historical figures.
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Dear Helena,
Thank you for that. And thank you for a lot of things. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I’ve always loved the idea of Chopin and George Sands. Thank you for this story.
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Dear Alicia,
I’m afraid their relationship ended badly. Thank you.;)
Shalom,
Rochelle
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It’s really good to get such a realistic inside scoop on a bygone era
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Thank you, Larry. 😀
Shalom,
Rochelle
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You made it interesting and fun to learn about this Rochelle. Loved your story.
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Dear Madison,
You made me smile. It’s always a pleasure to see Friday Fictioneers’ birth mother. 😉 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Congratulations! thank you, Rochelle, for being such a wonderful hostess for FF. i’m happy to be a part of this group. this is where i started writing fiction, almost a year and a half ago, and FF has truly helped me grow. i’ll never forget that 🙂
beautiful story, as always. i think i’ve told you this before, your stories always touch the readers.
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Dear KZ,
I’m thinking you came aboard about the time I took the driver’s seat. I’m happy it’s been helpful to you as a writer. I can honestly say that I’ve seen an improvement in your writing. All of us are students, aren’t we?
Thank you for your comments on my story.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Congratulations on the anniversary and on another bit of life via historical fiction that draws us in and educates.
janet
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Dear Janet,
Thank you on both counts. Always happy to educate…myself first. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I started doing a happy dance about a third the way through this because I love stories about these two historical lovers. You told the tale beautifully.
Congratulations on your anniversary!
If you care to read more fiction that talks about Chopin and Sand, I highly recommend Cynthia Ozick’s Puttermesser Papers. Ms. Puttermesser, a single Jewish woman living in New York, is absolutely obsessed with the couple in this magical-realism novel.
Peace,
Marie Gail
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Dear Marie Gail,
Glad I could provide the music for your happy dance. 😉 Fascinating pair and I might take you up on Ms. Ozick’s writing. Sounds interesting.
Thank you.
shalom,
Rochelle
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I love her work. Honestly, she’s my favorite Jewish writer ever, although I mean no disrespect to you by saying that. 🙂
Peace,
MG
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😉
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I thought for a moment that there was something even more scandalous than extra-marital sex going on here, Rochelle, but your extra photographs have put paid to my homosexual interpretation. I enjoyed your story, and the little lesson too. The ending is beautifully subtle and deliciously subversive!
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Dear Jennifer,
As I delved into the history I thought at first that it was a homosexual relationship. 😉 This is why I included the photos. I’m pleased that you liked my story.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Rochelle, these historical ‘faction’ pieces you give really are your niche like no-one else’s. But they are much more than just short pieces. You have an unwaverable ability to find and choose important moments not one of us knew about, then let the story out bit by bit. Goodness knows how much research goes into it, and there is the lesson for many a FF. Fascinating piece, enjoyed reading and learning.
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Dear Hamish,
Faction. I like that. All I can say to your comment is a humble thank you and flash a broad smile.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Congratulation Rochelle for completion of two years. I joined late but thank God for joining it. I get to rad your wonderful stories and some knowledge also. Also wonderful stories from other writers .Thanks to you. This one is beautifully written.
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Dear Indira,
One of the best things that has ever happened to me was to ask Madison Woods how to join Friday Fictioneers. And you could say I joined late as it had been going on for 7 months before. I never dreamed at the time I’d be facilitating. You are one of the blessings bestowed on me through this.
Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Two years- what an accomplishment! Your creativity and generosity are greatly appreciated by everyone here. I always love reading your stories. They’re authentic and leave me feeling a little bit wiser and inspired to improve my writing. I greatly enjoyed this story, as this is a piece of history I previously knew nothing of. Thank you so much for all that you do, Rochelle!
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Dear Adelie,
I’m not sure if it’s an accomplishment or just plain obsession. 😉 I fell in love with my first flash fiction. At the time I was the new kid on the block and found the community welcoming and helpful. It fascinated me that there were writers all around the world participating. Not to mention I’ve made a few lasting friendships. So when Madison asked if anyone wanted to take it over in Oct 2012 I begged for it. .(Be careful what you beg for).
Thank you for your comments and support. This is why I do what I do.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Rochelle- This falls on my favorite list. Not just for my love of Chopin’s artistry or for the love of strong independent cigar smoking lasses but for your superb weaving of words. Dana
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Dear Dana,
It never hurts my feelings to be on someone’s “favorite list.” Thank you. I think I want to know more about George Sand myself. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Excellent!
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Many thanks, Mama Zen.
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Hello can I ask with this Friday fictioneers the picture we see is the prompt? Xx
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Dear IALP,
Yes, the photo of the street scene is the prompt.
Shalom and welcome,
Rochelle
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Thank you 🙂 is there a deadline?
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The link closes at 6:55 PM CDT. I look forward to reading your take on the prompt.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I don’t always read your story before I write mine because I don’t want to be unduly influenced. I wanted to know the origin of this picture though and your story was the only way (or at least the easiest). I loved the tale and found myself reading about George and Frederic. Your story and my brief investigation inspired my own love story.
Thanks Rochelle.
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Dear Dawn,
Anytime I can be of assistance. 😉 Before I started facilitating I tried never to read anyone else’s story before writing my own.
Thank you and
shalom,
Rochelle
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How funny! I had first written a story of human trafficking (too depressing). Now reading yours….i see we wrote in similar vein of star crossed Lovers. Very nice Rochelle. and thanks so much for the inspiring you tube video!
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Dear Shandra,
Glad you liked my story and the video. I’m in love with Chopin’s music, although from here on out I’ll have to separate the man from his music. Or not. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Happy Anniversary, Rochelle. I enjoyed learning from you again this week.
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Dear Gina,
Thank you on both counts.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Both Chopin and Sands are fascinating characters to write about, Rochelle. Your story shows great sensitivity and also how difficult it must have been for them. Love the form.
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Dear Karen,
I, too, found Chopin and Sand to be fascinating. Their situation was not only difficult from the outside but from the inside as well. I hope at a later date to delve more deeply into their histories. Glad you enjoyed my story.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I’m listening to the video while I comment. 😉
That letter had everything in it — everything. Composers are very near and dear to me being brought up in a formally-trained musical family. Geo. Sand was CUTE, if paintings are any indication! I can see, too, that the letter seemed to indicate nothing has really changed in the music world, has it? 😀
Five gold stars!
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Dear Kentito,
It would appear that the composers were the rock stars of their day. 😉 Thank you for the five gold stars. No matter what, ya gotta love the music…and I do.
Thanks for commenting.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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OH yeah. GOTTA love the music. 😉
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Very succinct and tightly constructed! The best kind of historical fiction, that could actually be true.
If only the challenge had more than 100 words, he could have asked Fred to burn the linens outside…
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Dear Guapo,
Apparently Chopin was notorious for trashing hotel rooms so it might be true. Who knows? 😉 I’m sure that when the landlord asked him to burn the linens he had no idea he would do it that way.
Thank you very much for your kind comments.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Such a vivid story. In the last few weeks I watched a documentary about a fast-spreading TB strain in Africa that is resistant to conventional treatment. The fear of being outcast is so strong and so real that many people are trying to hide their illness, thus adding to the spread of the new strain.
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Dear Siobhán,
It’s frightening to think of TB being such a threat. Thank you for commenting and for sharing.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Excellent story! Did not see the blue guy so here is the link to my post!
http://salmonfishingqueen.wordpress.com/2014/04/10/festival-del-corazon-friday-fictioneers/
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me, either. wp having issues.
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Dear Barb,
Thank you. And, although it’s a little late in the game, I’ve taken the liberty to add your link to the list. Sorry for your difficulty. Not sure what’s up with that.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thanks Rochelle! Have a lovely Sunday!
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I love learning a little bit of history every time I read one of your stories, Rochelle! I didn’t know much about Chopin or Sands – this is very cool! Thanks for sharing.
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Dear Tiffany,
I don’t always write historical fiction, but when I do, I learn as much as anyone. 😉 Glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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🙂
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Beautifully written. Hopefully things have changed a little in that region.
Thanks for the tune.
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Dear Patrick,
I find it fascinating that Mallorca looks upon Chopin and Sand as heroes. So I guess you could say they changed their tune.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Great little walk through history. I love how these teach me stuff too! 🙂 The music was a nice added bonus.
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Dear JF,
Glad you enjoyed the music and the history. It was fun to write.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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great story as always. i love chopin – etude no. 3 in e major op. 10.
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dear plaridel,
thank you on the story. nice piece of music as is all of chopin…but the nocturne in C sharp minor is my favorite.
shalom,
rochelle
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Congratulations on two years Rochelle! And nicely written letter.
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Dear Weltchy,
Thank you on both counts. I can’t believe it’s been two years since I found Friday Fictioneers.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Gorgeous, simply gorgeous, Rochelle. I enjoy all of your stories, but this one really swept me away… listening to the music, added to the pleasure. You really capture the energy in the room and the spirit of these characters. Wonderful!
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Dear Dawn,
Thank you for stopping by and sweeping me away with your comments. 😉
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Rochelle, I know I am commenting a second time, but I read your story twice more and it is brilliant! “Burn the linens” – by all means, we can do this, so Chopin tossed a lit cigar on the bed. Brilliant! I mean this Rochelle, you are so very good! Whatawhata writer! I’m so glad I can tell my friends that I sort of know you! WOW! And, once again I want to tell you how much I enjoyed listening to the video clip of Chopin and better yet your knowledge of the history about these two souls. BRILLIANT Rochelle! BRAVO! Nan
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Dear Nan,
You’re the first to comment twice. I can’t stop smiling. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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What wonderful role models, these two. And your story does full justice to their independent spirit. A bit sad about his untimely death, though. The music video was a great bonus!
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Dear Joyfyulness,
I don’t know about role models, but they were certainly a fascinating pair. 😉 Thank you for your comments. Glad to know you enjoyed the music as much as I.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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You reminded me that several years ago, my husband, daughter and I visited the Island of Mallorca and toured the home in which Chopin lived. We also heard a mini concert by a local musician who played Chopin’s music. I remember that I was both charmed and saddened by the tour. hugs for stirring up such lovely memories…
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Dear Millie,
It always pleases me when a piece I’ve written stirs a memory or evokes and emotion. Don’t we live for that as authors? Thank you for commenting.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Loved your story Rochelle, beautifully done, the way you encapsulated the whole story and sadness in your few well-chosen words. I’ve always been awed by George Sand’s courage in choosing to live the life she did at that time in history.
And thank you so much for putting us onto Midori – I spent the rest of the evening on Youtube listening to her and Googling her – what a genius…awe-inspiring…thank you again, Valerie
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Dear Valerie,
It’s always a treat when you stop in with your wonderfully affirming comments.
I was delighted with where the research path led me this week and plan to learn more about George Sand. She was definitely ahead of her time.
To find that my favorite piece of music had been transcribed to my my favorite instrument was a pleasure indeed. I, too spent the rest of the time listening to Midori.
Thank you for coming by.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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And he literally burnt the linens! That’s pretty interesting!
Nice story here 🙂
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Burning linens of those infected with disease was common practice, sometimes they would even burn the entire house.
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Well then, Chopin was only doing his utmost to help in purging the house. 😉
Thank you for stopping by.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Dear Anita,
Burn the linens? Indeed he did. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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He guys, I accidentally deleted my blog entry for this week too soon. Sorry! 😦
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You must feel after two years of FF that you have a large second family. I like the story. It could well have come about. Thanks for the music with this one. The lives of musicians/composers are always fascinating and sadly, often tortured. I’m learning a song cycle by Schumann at the moment and researching into his life in the process. Dreadful. He had what today is called bi-polar and died in a psychiatric instituation. On writing ‘for the reader’ (Doug’s remark) I’d like to add that there are dangers in that, too, such as dumbing down, spoon feeding, not writing to the appropriate market. 🙂
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Dear Ann,
I do indeed feel like I’ve found a family of sorts…a global one at that. It’s the reason that, when Madison decided to step down, that I begged to take it on.
The composers were the rock stars of their day. Artists are often plagued with neurotic tendencies, aren’t we? Seems to be the nature of the artistic beast.
As for writing. I tend to agree with Doug. However I refuse to spoon feed or dumb down. Not sure yet what my market will be for my novels.
Thank you for your thoughtful comments.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thanks Rochelle! And I am a market for your novels! I’m going to pick up my novel again on our boat next week! Our boat’s not like Sandra’s though, it’s standing on legs in the boatyard. 🙂
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Good to know. Although this would be publisher type market. Praying and keeping my fingers crossed. 😉
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Good luck. 🙂
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Time flies when we’re having fun! Thank you for such a great story upon my return from hiatus–love starting off the reads with some Rochelle historical fiction!
Here’s mine: http://unexpectedpaths.com/friday-fictioneers/memento-mori/
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Dear Maggie,
Welcome back. Time does indeed fly. Where did those two years go? I’m pleased that you enjoyed my story. Great to see you back in the “Hollywood Squares” as Russell calls it.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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I always learn something 🙂 Thanks for the history lesson Rochelle!
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Dear Carrie,
My pleasure and thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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nice bit of historical fiction here! Always wonderful to learn something new!!
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Thank you, Bryan. .:D
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Since my link blew up, I decided to write something else and post a new link. forgive me this craziness.
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blue linky isn’t appearing today, so here’s the link: http://jacobsgardenwall.wordpress.com/2014/04/11/adeiu-sweet-dystopia/
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Sorry to have taken so long, but I took the liberty of adding you to the link. You’re number 104. Better late than never?
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Thanks!
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What a wonderful story and tribute. Sometimes, people judge way too much, and don’t listen to their hearts.
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Dear Freya,
Thank you. And yes, people do judge. I’ve been guilty of it many times only to find that I was so wrong.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Haha. Well done, as always, Rochelle. I love these little nuggets of history you weave so nicely into 100 words.
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Dear Sorchia,
Thank you. Glad you like.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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They better get moving before the whole place burns down.
Nice ending. 🙂
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Thank you, Audrey. 😉
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Or is that Alice?
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Thanks for this insight into their lives. I expect this was not the first time they encountered such an attitude.
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Dear Ali,
No, it wasn’t the first time they encountered that attitude. They went to Mallorca to get out from under Paris scrutiny. Thank you for commenting.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Dear Rochelle,
You are the mistress of historical fiction. Once again you tell us so much without telling us anything. You impart so much information subtly and entertainingly every time. Thank you.
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Dear Sarah Ann,
Thank you for your sweet, affirming comments.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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i love your historical stories…in 100 words you pack so much information in. you are, as i have mentioned before, a wonderful hostess. thank you for all you do every week. i didn’t realize Chopin passed away so early in life. sad, but what a legacy of beautiful music he left for us to enjoy.
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Dear Sun,
Thank you for commenting. Being hostess to FF is a huge part of my life and has been an oasis at times. Thank you for being a part of that.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Dear Susie SC,
Another wonderful slice of history served for our reading pleasure. I’m continually amazed by your writing prowess.
– Martin
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Dear Martin,
Your comments turn my head. Thank you.
Shalom,
Susie SC
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I don’t know if you are one of the most widely read and well informed people I have been acquainted with, or whether you just have too much time on your hands! 🙂 The effort and care with which you craft your little gems and the wonderful little historical cameos never fail to impress me. The music was hauntingly beautiful as well and an added treat. I doff my cap to you. 🙂
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Dear JWD,
I guess you could just call me someone with a thirst to learn all those things she was too foolish to study in her youth. 😉 The internet holds a wealth of information (and, sadly, misinformation). I’m not sure if it’s the age, but history has become a passion, if not an obsession.
As for time…ah…how I wish I had more of it to study and write. I’m up before dawn so I can squeeze in writing time before going to my full time job as a cake decorator.
I’m blessed with a long-suffering husband who shares me with my computer.
Glad you enjoyed my story and my favorite music of all time. Thank you for making my day with your affirming comments.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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