A Place to Leave Things

Tag: Creative Writing

  • One Beep, Good

    One Beep, Good

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    by

    Holly Leary
    in

    A 100-word suspense challenge, a deadly boarding line, and the difficulty of ending on ambiguity. Plus a detour into Japanese horror fiction and the strange books currently haunting my dreams.

  • Opportunistic, Omnivorous Squirrel

    Opportunistic, Omnivorous Squirrel

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    by

    Holly Leary
    in

    NYC Midnight 100 Word Challenge, 2026. Round One. Genre: Comedy, Action: Visiting, Word: Understand Place: 12th Title: Opportunistic, Omnivorous Squirrel My porch chairs, drenched in afternoon sunlight. Tiny visitor.  But can I just say something? That cushioned chair is made for humans, you know? And here you are, resting on hind legs. Fuzzy white belly.…

  • No Beber: A Florida Story

    No Beber: A Florida Story

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    by

    Holly Leary
    in

    The narrative “No Beber: A Florida Story” humorously depicts a dog walk in Florida, contrasting it with a wintry Boston life. It features anthropomorphic lizards engaged in quirky activities, including arm-wrestling and smoking cockroach cigarettes, while highlighting the theme of reclaimed water with the phrase “No Beber.” The author’s struggle with writing comedy is acknowledged.

  • Afterglow

    Afterglow

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    by

    Holly Leary
    in

    NASA’s report details the 2033 disappearance of astronaut Mia Emerson during a spacewalk, where she encountered a mysterious substance. After reappearing, she described a euphoric experience that hinted at a profound truth about existence. Though crewmates found no signs of distress, the recommendation for her institutionalization raised concerns about the treatment of non-conforming experiences.

  • The Tick

    The Tick

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    by

    Holly Leary
    in

    The Tick Long walk, long grass. It’s called grounding now, you know? You stick your feet onto the Earth And it’s supposed to balance your entire being.  But today,  Today I picked up a tiny taker.  Eight legs and not a spider.  A fraud. Phony footsteps onto my arm.  I didn’t know he was there…

  • Gravitas of Greatness

    Gravitas of Greatness

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    by

    Holly Leary
    in

    The poem reflects on the themes of existence, loss, and the inherent greatness within. It explores the journey of a celestial being, characterized by gravitas, as it navigates the cosmos, ultimately confronting its demise. Amidst the awe of its brilliance and the sorrow of loss, it questions the nature of grief and legacy.