Reviews from

The Rose and the Sunflowers

Please see notes for story inspiration.

16 total reviews 
Comment from strandregs
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

I agree
I wonder if they would give Putin 5 stars as well.
I have practically stopped entering contests.
This is a picture a snapshot of the evil of war.
The trauma damages generations.
Hitler all over again is devastating. :-))Z.

 Comment Written 10-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 10-Mar-2022
    I really, over the years, have started to feel invincible as if war would not happen in my lifetime. I don't feel like that today. Thank you for your review and comments.
Comment from Bill Schott
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

This story, The Rose and the Sunflowers, is quite sad when one imagines the horrors of being trapped in a nation at war. Brilliant concept and delivery here.

 Comment Written 08-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 08-Mar-2022
    Thank you so much, Bill, for your thoughtful comments and for the six star rating. You made my day. Hugs.
Comment from Thatguypk
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This is so sad and poignant, and a stark reminder of the terrible tragedy of what is going on in Ukraine. Thoughtfully written, embodying the symbols of love and of Ukraine. A sad and wonderful piece. Congrats on winning the contest.
PK

 Comment Written 08-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 08-Mar-2022
    Yes, you noticed the symbolism of the flowers. Thank you. I appreciate your thoughtful review and comments. Hugs.
Comment from LJbutterfly
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This is a compelling contemporary story alluding to the issues and concerns of Ukraine, even though you cleverly used the term "motherland," which didn't need the letter "I." As with great flash fiction, your story ended with a thought-provoking statement. Best wishes in the contest.

 Comment Written 07-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 07-Mar-2022
    thank you for saying all of that. I humbly appreciate your comments and review. Hugs.
Comment from LisaMay
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Your story is a timely reminder of how easily we can lose our loved ones. You capture the charming scene of a children and wife and husband about to enjoy time on Skype, when war intervenes... and their future is suddenly very uncertain. The sunflower has become particularly symbolic.
Your background notes make this event so real on a personal level. Well written... emotionally engaging and powerful.

 Comment Written 07-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 07-Mar-2022
    Thank you so much, Lisa, for your very encouraging review and comments. You totally made me smile today. Hugs.
reply by LisaMay on 07-Mar-2022
    :)))
reply by the author on 07-Mar-2022
    Thank you so much for your very thoughtful comments, and thank you for stopping by to read my story. Hugs.
Comment from Rosemary Everson1
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

The story about the beautiful flower is perhaps touching because when someone wants to return home and can't because of conflicts; it must be very trying. They will perhaps have to be patient and as fragile as the rose.

 Comment Written 07-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 07-Mar-2022
    That is a great point! Thank you so much for your comments and for stopping by to read my work.
Comment from Cheryl C.
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

What a beautifully tragic piece. You've used lovely imagery with the sunflower which I've always loved as it's always reminded me of happiness and hope. Lovely!

 Comment Written 06-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 07-Mar-2022
    Thank you for your comment and review. I'm hoping that the screen went blank because one of the kids tripped on the power cord or something. Hugs.
Comment from lyenochka
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

What a clever story you wrote and you chose names and words that would avoid the use of "i" and "j" plus hinted at the symbolism of the sunflowers (Ukraine's national flower). Then you show us what's Arkady's greatest fear. Hope you do well in the contest!

 Comment Written 06-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 07-Mar-2022
    Thank you so much for your thoughtful and kind review and comments. Hugs.
Comment from Gypsy Blue Rose
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Excellent entry for the Challenge writing prompt contest. Your story flows nicely and it's engaging.

I have been so worried about the Ukrainians and the war. They are so brave. I pray that the war will be over soon.

Good luck in the contest.

 Comment Written 06-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 06-Mar-2022
    I am praying for them too. Thanks for your comments and review. Hugs.
Comment from Wayne Fowler
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Very well penned. Good work.
You have to understand that there will be nearly as many characters here as on your whole story. Also know that there are none of the two letters used that follow the 'h'.
Best hopes and good luck.

 Comment Written 06-Mar-2022


reply by the author on 06-Mar-2022
    Haha thank you so much for your comments and review. They are humbly appreciated.