Here is a look at Chapter One of my new book Reimagined Artist...

Here is a look at Chapter One of my new book Reimagined Artist and a quick introduction to the lead character Oliver Murphy a.k.a Ollie.

I named this character after my two-year-old son, and the entire story is told in the first person. Let me know what you think?

Reimagined Artist - Chapter 1

Say Something

CAN MY MOTHER hear my thoughts? It’s one question that’s always fascinated me. It’s the only question keeping me alive. I’ve been sitting in front of her grave for hours, but who the hell knows if she’s listening. The dozen pink and white stargazer lilies look so peaceful violently swaying in the brisk wind leaning next to her modest headstone.

The upright position of each thin greenish stem mirrors the strength I always saw in my mom. The fragrance from each delicate petal seeps through my past memories like sharp daggers of blissful joy. I have no idea who drops them off every week, but I won’t question their intention. They must have known my mother intimately to always place her favorite flowers at the head of her unmade bed so faithfully.

A strange old man that almost looks like he works in the cemetery is standing a hundred feet away. He’s bending over putting fresh flowers on another lonely grave, making sure they are correctly positioned to feel the warmth of the sun. He is very meticulous. I think he might be the one who puts fresh flowers on my mom’s grave, but I can’t be sure.

He must be in his late sixties limping around with that rigidity old wooden cane, but I don’t recognize his face. He’s always tipping his grey salt and pepper hat in my direction to acknowledge my presence, and he’s here almost as much as me. If I had the balls, I would talk to him, but I’m afraid he will ask too many questions.

I hardly speak to anyone anymore. Even my own voice is starting to betray me. Most days, I think about newsworthy ways I could kill myself. I even have a great headline picked out for the title…

https://www.topherpike.com/blog/reimagined-artist-chapter-1

Passion