Writing Prompt 15: Teapot
Rediscover childhood memories with this quiet, domestic scene. Write about your reflections and stories inspired by this moment.
Illuminated by low evening sunlight, the photograph of the teapot on top of the fridge brings back memories of a childhood nursery rhyme long forgotten.
"I’m a little teapot short and stout.
Here’s my handle, here’s my spout.
When I get all steamed up, hear me shout
Tip me up and pour me out."
What does this simple scene evoke in you? Will it lead you down a path of nostalgia or inspire a new story waiting to be told? Write down your thoughts, let your imagination soar, and capture the essence of this moment in words.
Write it down, write it down.
Until next time.
Waiting for Morning
Faye places the teapot on the kitchen counter before tipping in two spoons of loose black tea.
One for her and one for the pot. The light in the small room dims as clouds drift across the sky and cover the sun. A chill enters the kitchen. Faye shivers. She places the kettle on the hob and turns on the gas, lighting it with a long match. The blue flame hisses and spits before settling into a soft hush underneath the kettle. Outside the birds gather in the grass picking at the worms that have come up for the moisture. The dew glitters across the blades like tiny jewels.
Faye rubs her hands and fingers together. Arthritis has seized the joints over time swelling the knuckles and stiffening her fingers into claws. She stands by the window. Rain begins to sweep across the landscape in front of her. A swathe of wind and water envelops her view. A small bird hops onto her shoulder and rubs its head against her cheek. Faye’s eyes well with tears as the dust and allergens from the bird’s feathers begin to irritate her nostrils. She fishes around in her sleeve for a tissue catching a sneeze as she goes to wipe her nose.
“Billy,” she says, stroking the bird’s feathers with her index finger. “What am I going to do with you?”
Story first posted in March 2020 // Photo: Tanya Clarke - New Zealand 2003
