“A Glimpse into the Heart of Imagination: Ruthie Paul’s ’’The Visitor’’ from India Writing Project” (2024)

Ruthie Paul, with her short story "The Visitor," secured the third position, weaving a narrative that is as enchanting as it is thought-provoking.

The Visitor by Ruthie Paul

The India Writing Project, now in its remarkable journey, has always been a beacon for the myriad voices dotting the vast landscape of Indian literature. It is a platform that not only nurtures but also celebrates the sheer diversity and talent that emerges from every corner of the nation. Season 2 of this prestigious contest brought to light a story that resonates with the whimsical yet profound essence of life's most elusive moments.

Ruthie Paul, with her short story "The Visitor," secured the third position, weaving a narrative that is as enchanting as it is thought-provoking. Her tale, spanning a mere 450 words, encapsulates a profound encounter, one that delves deep into the realms of opportunity, choices, and the roads less travelled.

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Entry: The Visitor by Ruthie Paul

Anyone home? Hello!

She was met with silence. The gate was ajar, and she could see the door wide open. She entered slowly, looking around. She knocked on the door frame again, peeking in. No one answered. She entered reluctantly and looked around. The place is a mess! She thought to herself. She walked into the kitchen, hoping to make herself a cup of tea. She was tired and on a schedule, but she could use a cup of tea.

She found a clean vessel after a little search. Then she puttered around till she located the tea leaves and sugar. She opens the refrigerator looking for milk, but one whiff and she decides to make herself some black tea.

Humming "While I’m waiting,” she made herself some tea, strong and sweet.

She found herself a clean beer mug, poured her cup of tea, and was off to the couch when a note under the fridge magnet caught her eye. It was scribbled in haste with a purple sketch pen that was lying open on the kitchen counter.

“Dear opportunity,

I’ve been waiting for you (as always), but my buddies Desire and Delusion DM’ed me. Just so you know, we are off pub hopping, starting at ‘Desolation Drive’ and hoping to make it to ‘Desperate Dopeheads’ by dawn. I’m so excited! This is going to be the drive of my life!

So, just in case you drop by, make yourself at home. I’ll be back soon [don’t count on it ]

Love.

Opportunist–in–waiting”

She read the note again, sighed, and sat to finish her cup of tea. Once done, she picked up the purple sketch pen and penned a note behind the very same one.

“Dear Opportunist–in–waiting,

I was here. I knocked on the door, hoping to be invited in. But, just so I wouldn't act too pricy, I let myself in.

I waited for you. But I’ve got to go now. I have a schedule to keep, more doors to knock on, and more opportunities to give away to those who invite me in.

I don't know if or when I will be back next, but I did have a wonderful deal for you. Sigh. Well, there is always another who will accept it.

Thanks for the tea!

Regards,

Opportunity”

She placed the note carefully under the fridge magnet and capped the sketch pen. She meticulously washed all the dishes and cups that she used for the tea, dried them, and replaced them.

It was good tea, she thought to herself as she pulled the door shut. Then, closing the gate, she hurried down the street.

She had a schedule to keep and more doors to knock on.

The Essence of "The Visitor"

Paul's story serves as a reminder that opportunity often comes in quiet moments, in the unlikeliest of circ*mstances, and that it is our readiness and openness to these chances that truly shape our paths. "The Visitor" is not just a story; it's a reflection on life, a call to mindfulness, and an invitation to embrace the possibilities that lie in waiting.

As the India Writing Project continues to uncover such gems, Ruthie Paul's narrative stands as a beacon of creativity and insight, encouraging writers and readers alike to ponder the depth of the seemingly mundane. Her story is a celebration of the human spirit, the unseen forces that guide us, and the choices that define us.

We invite our readers to delve into the imaginative worlds brought to life by our talented contributors and to find within them the echoes of their own stories. The India Writing Project is more than a contest; it's a journey into the heart of storytelling, where every voice finds its echo and every tale shines a light on the myriad facets of human experience.

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