D’Versepoets:
Write a short story of 144 words using this phrase from the poem “Symphony” by Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872-?) somewhere in the story, “And the faint perfume from its chalice steals—”.
To read the original poem, hope on over to D’Verse and check it out. I kept the title in mind for my short story.
Short stories are a blast to write! 144 isn’t much, but challenge accomplished.
After the Symphony
Kaci Rigney 2026
The audience milled about as the symphony members packed their instruments and exited the theatre. Eleanor grabbed her flute and hurried to the waiting hansom, the rain pelting her umbrella. Inside, she discovered the oboist.
“I beg your pardon, Randolf. I didn’t realize…”
“Not at all, Eleanor. I’m sure I don’t mind sharing the lift, if you’re not opposed.”
“I’d be delighted with the company,” Eleanor replied, and gave her address to the driver.
They enjoyed a pleasant ride to her county estate. Upon reaching Eleanor’s home she asked Randolf, “Would you care for a night cap? My father loves to host guests.”
“I would be most delighted,” Randolf said as he grabbed his things and helped her out of the hansom.
Eleanor poured the port thinking, and the faint perfume from its chalice steals all inhibitions. She flashed her guest a wicked smile.
I am thinking a Hansom is like a taxi?
Yeppers 👍
said the spider to the fly…. not sure why that came to mind… i am sure it is a much sweeter gathering… especially so involving music and wine… great response to the 144 prose… caught in the web of a certain time was captured quickly….
Thank you! 😊
And now I wonder how wicked she is…. maybe Randolph won’t come back again.
Right?
Or maybe he won’t leave.
You set the scene in so few words, Kaci, and so evocatively. What does Elanor have planned for Randolf?
That’s a good question. I must come back to it sometime and find out. LOL
Nice use of the prompt!
Thank you!
You are welcome!
Seems to me she has enough wit to overcome all his inhibitions, but a little port can do nothing but help! What a charming story, Kaci — I love how you put the quoted line to good use!
Thanks, Dora! I loved the poem, Symphony. Thank you for the great prompt!
Nice one
Much lovd
Thanks so much!