The good and the bad of being different (a fable) He was born with a defect he could not change. He was different and could never be like other boys, other men, other people. His disfigurement eventually drove him from his family, from the village and out into the world as a troubadour, a teller-of-tales … well, more precisely, a listener-of-tales. In solitude, with his trusty horse, he found a softer world without sniggers and demands and a world of peace and the silent whisperings of his soul. However, the solitude never lasted for long. The more he searched for that softer world, the more the sharp and abrasive one encroached upon him … till, one day, he met someone he didn't want to turn away, someone who yearned for the disfigurement he had. Your writing has rhythm and you build good climaxes through your language. You've definitely got the fire and brimstone side of it down and it can be pretty powerful stuff. ~ Nomadagio It is rare to find a story which has been so beautifully written. I use 'beautifully' rather than well written because your use of the language is outstanding it starts at the first sentence the first 'Once upon a time, when dreaming was useful, a child was born' and runs all the way through the story to 'They smiled at each other as he urged Clyde to start for the village. He shyly put his hand on hers and she didn't move hers away.' ~ Harry Helfer