Collecting

We are a family of collectors. We have diverse interests and collect many kinds of things. Rocks, stamps, small pieces of licorice. Even seeds. In the summer we often catch tiny snakes and lost children, poking and prodding them with our feet until they are packed closely together in boxes. Their end is swift and humane. Each specimen is examined and labeled, so dainty and lovely. See their tiny stomachs? See their scaly tails? We pin them up side by side. Such little dears. See, this pretty little fellow looks very cheerful, almost as if he could speak to you.

 

Ariel Berry is a creative writing doctoral student at Western Michigan University. She is editor-in-chief of Third Coast and associate prose editor for A-Minor.

Photo Credit: Junebuggs

 

2 Responses to “Collecting”

  1. Janice says:

    Great story. A beginning middle and twist ending- reading it again tnot unexpected.

  2. Janice says:

    Great story. A nice beginning middle and twist ending – though after reading it again not totally unexpected!

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