Creative Writing Portfolio 20062007 Forest Park

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Creative Writing Portfolio 2006-2007Forest Park

• Cameron Bither
• Eleventh Grade
• Mrs. Dowling

Click here to view my portfolio
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Introduction

• Thank you for taking the time to read the
  pieces contained in my portfolio. Within this
  portfolio, I have many of my own short stories
  and a few pieces of poetry. I do not have a
  piece that I personally feel is amazing, but I do
  feel as though I did at least a decent job. I
  hope you feel the same way.

Table of Contents
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Table of Contents

• Portfolio 1
• The Old Man and the Cakes
• (Journal 1)
• Space Lincoln
• (Journal 2)
• Broken Dreams
• (Journal 3)
• Tom Versus Bongo Fight Night
• (Journal 4)
• Burning Bright
• Over There
• (Conflict Story)
• Down to Earth and Adolescence
• (Poetry)
• Closing Time
• (Additional Writing)
• Reflections

• Portfolio 2
• Losealottalimbitis
• Consciousness
• Randal Nuklear
• Too Early
• Zombie Writes
• Historical Fiction
• A Journal and Night
• Wrecked
• Reflections

• Portfolio 3
• Right Now
• A Brief History of Sneezing and all Sneeze
  Related Subjects.
• The Angered Sea
• Dubious Disguises and Peculiar Personas
• Rules
• The Liquid Consumption Device
• Falling Down
• Clock Watching and River Viewing
• A Rain and I Dont Understand.
• Current Events
• Reflections

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The Old Man and the Cakes
I felt angry as the old man in front of my
blocked my path. The pool was closing, and I
needed to navigate my way back home. The two
cakes I was preparing for dinner were baking in
my oven in my suburban dwelling and I needed to
take them out. Between the exit and me was the
man, talking with the friendly neighborhood
hillbilly, Jethrowe. He had been talking for over
two hours, and his story was obviously boring his
audience. "Hurry up! The cakes!" I shouted, short
on breath and temper. The man turned around
with a crazed look in his eyes. He stared at me
for a moment, then grabbed me, and picked me up
over his head like a sack of potatoes. It was
surprising he could do that, seeing as how he
needed a cane to walk. He tossed me toward the
pool, and I flew through the air. It made me
think of roller coasters, and how they always
made me feel sick. I don't know why.
5
Space Lincoln
The small glass tube hissed to life. The
interior was not visible, but it was clear it was
in working order. Light flashed from the console
next to the tube, illuminating the dark room.
Suddenly, the hissing stopped, and the console
released a short whistle. It was finished. Two
men approached the tube and unlocked it. The top
slid open, and the men looked inside. The
operation was a success Abraham Lincoln had
been awoken from his eight-hundred year
slumber. Lincoln blinked his eyes and look
around at his surroundings. It seemed so
strange, yet he felt safe. The two men in front
of him stared, awestruck that they stood in his
presence. Where am I? Lincoln questioned
them. At first, neither man spoke. Both of them
continued to stare. Finally, one of the men
smacked the other, and he stepped forward.
Welcome to our world, President Lincoln. It is
the year 2685. We are in dire need of your
assistance, he stated. Lincoln waited silently
for a moment, and then spoke again. What do you
need me to do? Our race is being hunted down
by the Norgo Confederacy, an evil alliance
between various hostile alien life forms, the
man answered. We were hoping you would be
willing to lead us against them. What makes
you think Im qualified? The puzzled President
asked. Well, youre Abraham Lincoln! You can
do anything! the other man exclaimed. Lincoln
scratched his head as he pondered the request.
His time was so much simpler how could he win
when he knows nothing of this future? Still, he
could not deny their request. The human race was
in danger, and they needed a leader. Youve got
yourself a President, Lincoln responded, nodding
to the two men.
6
Broken Dreams
I once had a nightmare that I had seen a vision
of the future. It showed me the world, and how
it was going to come to an end. I attempted to
tell anyone I could about this strange vision,
but no one wanted to listen. Whoever I told
thought I had invented the whole story, even
though I swore it was true. It was as though
none of them cared about anything I had to say,
even though I carried an important message. At
that instant, the sky became dark, and what I had
seen was about to take place. When it was all
about to end, I woke up. I realized it was a
dream, yet it seemed so very vivid in my mind.
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Tom Versus Bongo Fight Night
Tom's hand trembled as he entered the stadium.
Cheering. Clapping. Shouting. It was a sight to
behold. As he approached the ring in the center,
he inhaled a long, deep breath. This is the
moment he had been training for his entire life.
His mentor sacrificed his own well-being to teach
all he knew, and Tom had continued to learn, even
after Master's unfortunate waffle accident took
him away. He stepped into the ring, gazing at the
crowd. They thirst for the beginning of the
match. It was at this moment that Tom looked
into the opposing corner, where his opponent
stood. He was a mountain of a man, and looked as
strong as a bear. A really strong bear. "Hold
on," Tom thought to himself, "That IS a
bear!" It was true. Bongo, the Dancing Bear,
would be Tom's final opponent. Before he had more
time to think, the referee walked into the ring.
He walked with a certain confidence that Tom had
never seen in his life, even though the referee
wasn't wearing pants. Tom stared as the skirted
ref walked to the center of the ring, then began
to step toward him. The bear then approached him
in a relaxed manner. All three met in the center,
and the ref began to speak. "Ladies and
Gentlemen! This is our final match of the
championship! In this corner, the challenge
Tomas Samon! And, over here The three time
champ, the terrible teddy, the unholy ursus,
the...uh...dancing bear...Bongo, the Dancing
Bear!" As he finished his announcement, the
crowd erupted into a chorus of cheers and claps.
Bongo was obviously the favorite. Tom would show
them, though. He had made it here, and that is
what mattered. "Take your positions," the referee
ordered. Tom raised his hand, getting into a
stance. He positioned his hand in front of
himself. Bongo just stood there, watching. It was
as though he was in a trance, and nothing could
faze him. Finally, the ref spoke again. "You know
the rules Best three out of five wins," he
spoke. The referee took a few steps back and
raised his hand. Rock Paper Scissors Sh
oot! The match began
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Burning Bright
A flash of light Then all is naught Ashes to
ashes For which we have fought Is this the work
of mortal men? A flash of light Then all is
naught Is this our salvation? Is this the end? Is
it all over? Well soon see.
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Over There
Rough day, Harley? Harley Taverse looked up at
the figure by his side. His short hair masked by
a helmet, his blue eyes staring, and the cold
piece of wood and metal he carried in his arms,
in front of his dark green uniform. Harley could
not help but grin at him. Well, Private Green,
Harley began, emphasizing the soldiers rank,
Id say there have been better ones. Harley
stepped over to him and patted his shoulder.
Carl Greene, who Harley had known since fourth
grade in Mrs. Harleys class, had survived the
landing into Normandy. With all that had
occurred, Harley was relieved to see his friend.
They had made a promise to find each other once
they had landed, but there was not much hope
behind their words. You holding up, Sarge?
Carl asked, slowly sliding down against the cool
wall. Harley sighed and sat down again. These
men depend on me, Carl. My choices decide if
they live or die. How can I hold? Carl looked
at the ground for a moment, then back to Harley.
Imsorry, Harley. I didnt mean to-Harley cut
him off before he could finish. No, Im sorry.
I shouldnt be complaining. I need to show them
I have what it takes to be a squad
leader. There was a moment of silence, and then
Carl reached over and patted Harleys shoulder.
They grinned at each other and stood up as
another officer began to approach. Sergeant
Taverse, we need you over here, the man told
him, and Harley followed. The officer, Corporal
Blaine, brought Harley over to where other
officers had gathered. They saluted Harleys
arrival, and he returned it. Shortly, they spoke
of the landings, but then turned their attention
to their current task Brecourt Manor. The
German Army had set up artillery in that
location, and the Airborne had been tasked with
silencing the guns. We need you and your men to
approach from here, An older officer spoke,
pointing to a map, and make your way to the
guns. Take only weapons and ammo. Nothing else.
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Harley nodded as the officer finished speaking,
and set off to relay the message to the other
members of his unit. You can do this He said
quietly, reassuring his own faith. Boys, saddle
up! Were moving out! He commanded them.
Weapons and ammo only! Beggin, grab the thirty
cal. Within moments, the unit was on the move,
heading toward the manor. Some of the men
talked, while others silently checked their
equipment. Private Jetters and Corporal Blaine
were silently praying together. Jetters turned
to Blaine when they finished. Here. Its a
cross. I hope itll put you to ease, He said,
offering a small necklace to Blaine. Blaine felt
the necklace in his hand, and then placed it
around his neck. You sure, Jetters? I mean,
its yours and all Itll serve you better,
Jetters replied, shaking his head. The unit
stopped and silenced. They had arrived. The
unit huddled around Harley. He took a deep
breath, and began to speak. Alright, heres how
it is. Blaine, Jetters, Karning, Greene. You
will take the right. Wait for my signal.
Beggin, take Salis, and head over there, he
pointed to a small hill, covered with trees, And
lay a base of fire on that gun. Eldin, Marse,
and Aader, youre with me. Harley and the men
he had with him approached their position,
crouching down to avoid detection. At the trunk
of a single tree, he stood and watched the German
soldiers. He assured himself again, and took a
deep breath. His hand shot up, giving a signal
to Beggin to open fire on the enemy position.
His spot erupted in a stream of lead. One
moment, the Germans were talking. The next, they
had taken cover as one of their men lay on his
back. Harley then stood, raising his M1 Garand
rifle, peering down its sight. He found a
target, inhaled, and squeezed the trigger. A
crack exploded from the barrel, accompanied by a
flash. A single German infantryman cried out for
only a moment until he stopped. The rest of the
soldiers attempted to look at his attacker, by
the fire from the machine gun had them pinned
down. Harley then turned his attention away from
the Germans and to the second part of his unit.
He gestured to the German position, shouting
Suppress that position!
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The four man unit took up position behind a
broken fence and opened fire upon the German
soldiers. Harley then charged their position,
leading the others in his unit. They quickly
eliminated the threat without having any
injuries. The other German position was alert
now, and began to fire on the first position.
Harley and his men took cover as the hail of
gunfire covered their area. Advance! Harley
commanded his men, moving them slowly down a
trench, leading to the next gun. With everyone
else gone, Harley proceeded to place an explosive
charge on the gun they had just captured, and
quickly made his escape. The gun detonated in a
shower of sparks and scrap metal, but there was
no time to marvel. There were two more guns
still active. With Beggins machine gun
focusing now on the second position, the Germans
began to take more defensive measures, allowing
the rest of the unit to move onto their side. In
an attempt to surprise them, they hurled
themselves into the position, intent on taking
the gun. Hand to hand combat ensued, but the gun
was soon under the control of the American
soldiers. The third and final German position
had seen the attack, but had no time to react, as
Beggin now fired on them, and without protection,
they would be ripped to shreds. Secretly,
though, a squad of four German riflemen had begun
moving through the trenches, intent on stopping
the American advance. They were able to catch
the unit off guard, and fired on them, hitting
Blaine. After the American retaliation, two of
their soldiers lay dead, one wounded, and the
last ran back to their previous position. In a
pause during the commotion, the Airborne soldiers
crowded around Blaine, who was severely wounded.
BlaineAre you ok there? Jetters asked,
kneeling down to speak with him. Blaine slowly
nodded, but it was obvious he was lying. The
bullet had struck him in the chest, and they had
no medic. It was fatal, and there was nothing
they could do. I guess that crossshould have
stayed with you He told Jetters.
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Blaine closed his eyes and exhaled, going limp.
The unit paused and was silent. It was the first
member they had lost in the entire conflict.
They remained silent, but then they all nodded.
Blaines sacrifice would not be in vain, and they
began to move toward the final German gun. With
vengeance in their minds, they attacked the
German position, and took control. Harley placed
the final charge on the gun and destroyed it. He
then turned to his unit to address them.
Goodjob, boys. You did well today. It was
obvious they had all been shaken by Blaines
death, but they all wanted to finish what they
came to start. Harley looked at them, but then
thought of what would happen now. How he had to
tell their commanding officer of the loss, how a
letter will be sent back home, simply stating
Blaines family that he died in service, and the
funeral that would follow. Harley had not known
Blaine well, but it did not matter. He was under
his control, and it felt as though it was his
fault. It was almost as though they could hear
him think. One by one, each man came up to
Harley and patted his shoulder. Harley, its
not your fault. Blaine knew what the risks
wereHedwant us to do continue, Carl told
him. Harley looked up at him and slightly
smiled. Hed finish this war, and lead his men.
They needed him as much as he needed them, and
the world depended on all of them.
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Down to Earth Adolescence
There goes the warmth Down with the sun Days
end Nights continue No more heat The air is
Chilled As leaves shift Their colors and
Tumble Down to Earth.
No longer a child I must change No matter my
thoughts I still change For better? Or for
worse. No one knows Adulthood awaits.
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Closing Time
It was about three weeks ago my brother Remy
called me up. Remy never really spoke to me a
lot. I mean, we talked and all when we were
kids. When he still lived at home, we talked a
lot, too. Ever since he moved out though, hes
kinda distanced himself from us. Its alright,
though. I understand hes got a life outside of
us. Anyway, he called me up a while ago. I was
preparing to leave for college, and he wanted to
get together for lunch at one of the local
restaurants before I was gone. I told him thats
fine, and we agreed to meet on a Saturday. I
never really believed Remy when we made these
kinds of plans, though. He had an awful history
of forgetting or being late, or something like
that. Still, I felt like this time was
different. I could tell by his voice he really
meant it. And Im glad I believed him.
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When Saturday rolled around, there he was. It
was a surprise to see him, to be honest. I
hadnt seen him in months by that point, and he
looked a lot different then he did last time. He
had a beard at this point nothing major, though.
Just the beginnings of one. His hair was pretty
short, too. Shorter than he usually had it, at
least. The waitress from the restaurant sat us
pretty fast, especially for a Saturday. It was a
nice table, really. Two seats right by a window,
where the sun was shining on through. We were
silent for a few moments, after we ordered
drinks. I wasnt sure what to say, really. For
a brief second, I thought about just leaving.
Part of me felt like Remy just abandoned us, like
he didnt care about what happened. But it was
only for a moment. I knew Remy caredhe just had
a difficult way of expressing it. Finally, he
spoke. So, where you headed? He inquired.
George Washington University, I responded
quickly, I told you when you called.
Remember? When I asked him, Remy sighed really
loudly. Sorry, Eddie. Cant say I doMy fault,
he confessed.
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Its fine. Dont call me Eddie, though. Im an
adult now. You can at least call me Ed or Edgar,
like everyone else, I told him. I felt sort of
bad telling him that. I just cant stand that
name, though. Eddie was his little pet name for
me, since I was younger. No one called me that
now, though. He stayed silent after I told him
that. It made a bigger impression on him than I
initially thought it would, I guess. That really
made me feel bad. Youre an adult now? He
asked me, and then he laughed a weak laugh. I
dont think Im ready for that yet. I dont
think I am at all. Well, its not like I can
stop it now, can I? I shot back. Something told
me this was not going as well as he had
originally thought it would. I could not stop,
though. I had so much to talk with him about. I
needed answers to all the questions I had for
him. Remywhy do you always stay so far away?
Why dont you try to stay in touch more? I
asked him.
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IIm not sure, Ed. I mean, I justIts just
hard for me. Im doing so much, and it just
slips my mind He responded. I didnt know of
what to make of him. I could tell he honestly
didnt have a straight answer for me. He wanted
to have one, but it just didnt come to mind. I
felt like I was being a bit harsh on him, though.
Remy, lookIm sorry. I didnt mean to make
you feel uncomfortable or anything. Im sorry,
I had to make sure he knew how I felt. He smiled
and looked over at me. Ed, dont be sorry. I
understand why you feel that way. And Im sorry
that I dont try to keep in contact with you all
more often. I should, though. You just need to
remember, though, that youll always be Eddie to
me. Youll always be that little kid who asked
me to play games with him. Youll be that little
kid who I taught to ride a bike. And thatll
never change.
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At that moment, I knew that it was good decision
to come. Seeing Remy smile at me really made me
feel as though all the times Ive gotten mad at
him, all the times weve fought, all the times we
didnt see eye to eye were just tests of how
strong our bond was. I just watched him for a
moment, but then stood up out of my seat and
hugged him. I love you, Remy. You know that,
right? I asked him. He just nodded and laughed
slightly. Yeah, I sure do. I sure do, Ed. I
love you, too, he told me. I sat back down as
the waitress approached, and we both placed our
order. The rest of the lunch was pretty relaxed,
and I enjoyed myself.
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Reflections
The assignment that was most difficult for me was
writing the two poetry pieces for the portfolio.
Poetry is not my favorite type of writing, and I
have a hard time developing it on the fly. I
overcame this by attempting to write it, solely
because it is required for the portfolio
The assignment I am most proud of is my short
story Closing Time. I personally feel that
its a decent writing. I wanted to write a
serious piece that is a departure from my usual
stories involving bears playing Rock, Paper,
Scissors or Abraham Lincoln in space.
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One piece I chose not to include is my first Free
Writing journal entry. The story I wrote is not
nearly as good as the ones I decided to include
are, and I really do not want anyone to read
it. I would not mind writing more for Closing
Time. I mostly made it short because I needed
to have something extra to include in my
Portfolio, but with more time, I believe I could
further develop the characters by developing
their background history and other events in
their life.
And, over here The three time champ, the
terrible teddy, the unholy ursus,
the...uh...dancing bear...Bongo, the Dancing
Bear! is one of my favorite sentences because of
the use of alliteration in the various names.
Also, the name Bongo the Dancing Bear is one of
my favorite names. On a more serious note,
Seeing Remy smile at me really made me feel as
though all the times Ive gotten mad at him, all
the times weve fought, all the times we didnt
see eye to eye were just tests of how strong our
bond was, is another one of the sentences I
liked. I really felt as though it showed how
strong the bond was between the two characters in
the story.
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Broken Dreams could probably adapted into a
poem of some sort. That is honestly the only
piece I believe that I could make a decent change
with.
I feel as though Tom and Bongo Fight Night
reflects me the most. It pretty much displays
all the inane madness I could make up, but also
shows Im decent writer, I guess. I try to use
both of these traits to develop a style that is
my own. On my short stories, it seemed as though
some of my classmates enjoyed reading my pieces.
I also showed a few pieces to my friends and
family, and they believed my crazy writing was
entertaining.
Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed my
completely demented writing pieces.
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(No Transcript)
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Losealottalimbitis

• Well, Doctor, its like this began the man
  who stood in front of Dr. Stevens, I seem to
  have caught a nasty case of Losealottalimbitis.
• Dr. Stevens stared at the man and the stump
  where his leg had once been. Why exactly is it
  called Losealottalimbitis? the doctor asked.
• The man who first discovered it was Doctor
  Adrian Losealottalimb. Since he found it, they
  named it after him, the patient answered.
• Doctor Stevens nodded to the man, then looked
  at his chart. His condition was fine... Well,
  except for the whole lost limb thing. Stevens
  wrote a few short notes on the chart, then
  returned his gaze to his patient. Do you still
  have the detached foot? he questioned.
• The footless man paused for a moment, then
  nodded his head and retrieved a jar from his
  coat. Within the jar was his missing foot.
  Doctor Stevens, upon seeing the limb, smiled at
  his patient and patted him on the shoulder.
  Well have that limb back on in no time.

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• How exactly did you catch Losealottalimbitis
  in the first place? Isnt it native only to
  Taiwan, Russia, and downtown Seattle? the
  Doctor asked.
• The patient looked at the foot, then to his
  Doctor. He opened his mouth to speak, but at
  that moment, his jaw detached itself and fell to
  the ground. Gasp! Doctor Stevens shouted,
  which was rather odd, seeing as how he could have
  just gasped on his own.
• Now was not the time to dwell on gasps,
  however. It was obvious the patient still had
  not overcome Losealottalimbitis. Immediately,
  Doctor Stevens rushed the man to surgery to
  reattach his lost limbs. Within moment,s the
  staff had begun their work on the patient.
  ScalpelspongePez dispenser the head surgeon
  requested.
• As the items were handed to him, he paused in
  gasped, instead of wording it. The other
  surgeons, frightened, looked toward him. He
  stared at the item in his hand, then displayed it
  to them. I got the Darth Vader one! he
  shouted, holding out a Pez dispenser in the shape
  of the character so they could all see.
• The surgical team sighed with relief, seeing as
  how there was nothing to worry about. Within
  moment,s the patients limbs were e reattached
  and he made a full recovery from
  Losealottalimbitis.

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Consciousness

• Oh, man. Gotta write something today, and I
  dont have any idea what to do. This is not
  good. Not good at all. Maybe if I just
  catalogue my thoughts and call it writing, no one
  will know I wasnt prepared! Yeah! That will work
  just fine. Wait, Ive wrote this, and they can
  read it. That just gave it away. Thats no
  good.
• Oktime to stall. Think of a good subject.
  Nothings coming to mind. Why didnt I just
  choose to a better subject beforehand? Oh,
  right. I didnt think any subjects were good
  enough. Thats why. Guess I brought this on
  myself. Oh! What if I made an astute
  observation. That would pass as some sort of
  writing! And something is always better than
  nothing. Did that count as an observation? No?
  Oh, alright then.
• Uhsure is some nice weather were having,
  right? Wait, hold on. Theyre reading this.
  They cant answer. Hold on. Ive just written a
  whole page of scatterbrained thoughts. That must
  count as writing!
• At least I hope it does.

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Randal Nuklear

• I believe its time the origins of Randal
  Nuklear were revealed. What? You say youve
  never heard of Randal Nuklear? Hes only the
  greatest rock-and roll guitarist who has ever
  lived! He died when he was only fifteen, but he
  did more in those few years than most people do
  in their entire lives!
• It all started when he was born. Everyone who
  was there remembers him, as he was the only child
  to be born with a mohawk.. It was obvious Randal
  Nuklear was going to be a legend.
• Even as a child, Randal exposed the hear and
  soul of Rock-and Roll (Hey, that rhymed). He
  failed every single class he was ever brought
  into, but he never cared. Intelligence is for
  chumps, everyone remembers him saying. No one
  dare to question the young rocker. How could
  they? He had already grown a beard. Thats
  right In grade school, Randal Nuklear had
  already grown a beard.
• Randals life had not been very eventful until
  the day of his tenth birthday. His entire life
  changed that year
• Randal Nuklear received his first guitar.

27

• For eight straight weeks, Randal played his
  guitar until the very pick he was using burst
  into flames. It could not withstand the power of
  Nuklears rocking. Everyone within a twenty mile
  radius had heard his playing, and suddenly,
  dozens of bands, of both the professional and
  garage variety, begged Randal Nuklear to play for
  them. For an entire month, the bands argued over
  who he would play for. They had finally decided
  to hold a Tic-Tac-Toe championship to see who
  would win the right to have Nuklear play for
  them. At the end, the victor was chosen to be
  Provolone, a Scandinavian Heavy-Metal band.
• Randal Nuklear played with the band for the
  rest of his life. All of Provolones CDs and
  live performances sold out. Not just because of
  Nuklears amazing guitar prowess, but also
  because of the stunts he would perform at their
  live shows. Each and every stunt was more insane
  than the last. One fateful day in the year of
  1999 would change this forever, though.
• During the Thrash Lobster Festival, Randal
  Nuklear performed his greatest feat ever he swam
  in a tank with a shark and proceeded to punch it
  in the face. As the shark reeled from its
  attack, a rocket that was placed underneath the
  water tank ignited and launched it into the air.
  Nuklear attempted to escape the tank, but before
  he could, the rocket spiraled out of control and
  crashed in the Atlantic Ocean. The shark was
  found days later, but Randal Nuklear was no where
  to be found. After a nine-month search, it was
  finally called off. For a straight year,
  memorial services were held. And, on cold
  November nights, you can still hear his guitar
  wailing.

28
Too Early

• The green numbers
• Glowing in the dark
• It screams Wake Up
• Even though my mind says
• Too Early.
• Yawning, stretching, stirring
• Standing up to face the day.
• Or, at least attempting to.
• Cereal again, I see.
• Oh, by the way, six twenty-one.

• Time for a shower.
• Six forty-one, ready to go
• Just need to find my shoes.
• Whered I put them?
• Six forty-six, still looking.
• I think I hear the bus.

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Zombie Writes

• Something people usually dont notice about me
  is that Im normal. You see, my name is Todd.
  I'm a zombie. Yeah, thats right a zombie.
  Bet you didnt think a zombie could write, huh?
  Theres a lot people dont know
  about-Braiiiiinser, zombies. Did you know that
  we choose Presidents and stuff, too? Thats
  beside the point, though. The point is
  that-BraiiiinsWe want equal rights and
  representation, too. Were zombies and all, but
  does that not still make us-Braiiiinshuman? Are
  we not deserving of Brains? II mean freedom?
  All I ever hear is Oh, a zombie ate my sisters
  brains, or He was mauled viciously by one of
  those zombies, and then theres always Help!
  Im being attacked by zombies!. When are we
  ever praised? When are we viewed in a good
  light? I never hear anyone say how well the
  blood on my hands matches my torn red sweater.
  Not a single kind word.

30
Historical Fiction

• A flash of light burned into the night sky as
  bombs burst in the air and on the ground.
  Captain Simms and his squad were pinned down in
  the forest. They had called for reinforcements
  more than four hours ago. If they did not
  receive assistance soon, they would either have
  to retreat or surrender. Simms slowly turned
  toward the Corporal in his unit. Whats the
  situation? he questioned.
• The young Corporal stared at his Captain for a
  moment, then began to speak. Only five of us
  are fit to fight, Sir.
• Simms cursed under his breath as he surveyed
  the area around them. If we dont get help
  soon, there will be nothing left for them here,
  he responded. Through the haze-filled horizon,
  Captain Simms spotted a single jeep moving toward
  their position. When it neared, the vehicle
  stopped, and two figures stepped out of it. As
  Simms attempted to gain a better look, a German
  Tiger Tank burst out in front of him, leveling
  its massive gun directly toward him and his men.
  Before the tank could fire, the jeep which had
  arrived was flung toward it, destroying both the
  tank and the jeep. Simms, amazed, stared at the
  two who had arrived. Once was a soldier, just as
  he was. The other, though, was different. The
  other was the newest addition to the Allies
  forces against the Axis Powers A machine-man,
  created by Nikolai Tesla. Simms approached the
  two and stared for a moment, before attempting to
  ask a question to the soldier. He spoke before
  Simms could udder a single word, though. Am I
  to assume you are Captain Simms? I am Lieutenant
  Khaine. And this, he continued, pointing in the
  direction of the machine that stood beside him,
  Is Abraham. Hes a friend do not worry. Hes
  the one that just saved your life.

31

• Simms scratched his head, still attempting to
  understand what he had been told. What exactly
  is he? Simms asked.
• Abraham is the first completely mechanized
  infantry unit, Khaine answered, An entirely new
  weapon that has been developed by Tesla. Have
  you not heard?
• Cant say I have, Lieutenant. Still, good to
  have you two on board. Were in a situation
  here, Simms told him.
• Weve heard all about it. I think its time
  we showed these Germans what were made of, said
  Khaine, turning to face Abraham.
• Abraham, go to work! Show these men what you
  do best, he ordered him.
• With whirring gears and a series of clicks,
  Abrahams head faced Lieutenant Khaine and
  nodded. He then swiftly charged toward the
  advancing German forces. Immediately, the
  soldiers fired on him, but every time they made
  contact, the bullets would ricochet off his metal
  frame. Once he was within striking distance,
  Abraham unleashed a mighty offensive against the
  Germans. With a series of quick punches and
  throws, the squad of soldiers soon found
  themselves weakened and hopelessly overwhelmed by
  the machines assault. Instantly, they began to
  retreat, returning to a position where more
  soldiers lay in wait. Should we help him,
  Lieutenant? Simms asked, watching as Abraham
  followed the German retreat.
• Abraham is perfectly capable of handling
  himself. Dont worry, Khaine responded, smiling
  to himself. Now close to the Germans line,
  Abraham faced what would have seemed to be an
  unstoppable wall of fire to a normal squad.
  Without faltering, he neared them, and once he
  was in range, he wasted no time in dispatching
  the German forces. Within moments, Abraham had
  turned the tide of the battle. With the Germans
  now in full retreat, he returned to the remaining
  members of Simms squad.
• Simms slowly stepped toward him as he neared,
  and offered his hand in a shake. I must say, I
  was pretty impressed. You sure know what you are
  doing, he said.
• The machine looked upon Simms, studying him.
  Slowly, his metallic hand grasped Simms, and
  they proceeded to shake.

32
A Journal

• Black and white, no patterns
• A frail little thing.
• Ragged around the corners
• Frayed around the edges
• Scribbles and sketches
• Fill the many pages.
• Thoughts and consciousness
• Contained within
• Between the covers
• Both the front and the back.
• Light as a feather
• But heavy with writing.

Night
What is the opposite of night? Perhaps a moment
when it is not bright A point in time not
considered day When the sky becomes where the
stars lay.
33
Wrecked

• The wreckage of the small naval vessel had
  washed onto the sun-drenched shore. Two men were
  inside the wreckage. One of them, a tall, lanky
  one, was unconscious. The other, who was rather
  short andfluffy, well say, sat beside him.
  When the unconscious man finally awoke, the other
  glared at him and begin to yell. Oh, thanks for
  finally waking up. This is all your fault, you
  know!
• The now conscious man gazed about them at the
  island they were apparently stuck on. As his
  head cleared, he turned toward the yelling man.
  What are you talking about? he asked him.
• What am I talking about? Im talking about
  you falling asleep at the wheel and crashing the
  boat, Jim! the other man shouted in response.
• Falling asleep at the wheel? You put me under
  hypnotic control! You got drunk off pineapples,
  hypnotized me, and told me to find shore! Jim
  replied, You know how vulnerable I am to
  hypnotic suggestion, Bernie!

34

• Bernie, his face now beat red, turned away from
  Jim, grumbling. Sighing, Jim stood up and
  surveyed the island. The island was not familiar
  at all, and there were no distinguishing
  features. It was just a mass of land in the
  middle of the ocean. Jim knew it was possible
  they would never be found, so he proceeded to
  investigate the rest of the island. If they
  could not be found, he had to find a way to
  survive. The island had some trees close to the
  shore, and was actually larger than first
  expected. Perhaps it would not be as bad as he
  had first believed.
• When he reached one end of the island, however,
  Jim was in for the shock of his life. It turned
  out that they had not landed on a deserted
  island, but just a small section of Hawaii.
  Ahead of them, he saw a small town and many
  people. He ran back to tell Bernie, but he
  refused to believe him. How do I know youre
  not still hypnotized? he asked in a snide
  voice. Fine, then. Dont believe me! Jim
  angrily responded as he stormed off toward the
  village. If Bernie wouldnt believe him, then
  Bernie could just wait by the wreckage.

35
Reflections

• I think, this semester, I have developed my own
  personal writing style a bit more. I also feel
  as though, as much of our focus has been on
  fiction writing, my creativity has been expanded
  to accommodate even more ideas for subjects.
• Planning out writing pieces in Creative Writing
  class can often be applied to writing essays for
  other classes on exams and tests. Since Ive
  taken Creative Writing, I feel much more
  comfortable writing essays because Ive done so
  much writing in the class.
• I personally enjoy my historical fiction story.
  It felt as though I had plenty of freedom to
  write about what ever I wanted to write about,
  and I enjoy that feeling. If I get to decide on
  what to write about, it never feels like a chore.
• There dont seem to be too many challenges when I
  write. Perhaps with poetry, Im still having
  trouble, but that would be all.

36
Reflections

• Much like my previous works in my portfolio, I
  feel my fiction writing for short stories is
  probably my strongest area. Its my favorite
  part of Creative Writing, and I try my hardest to
  write compelling stories when we work on those
  types of pieces.
• Again, much like my previous portfolio, I still
  need to work on my poetry writing. It is not my
  strongest area in writing, and I am sure I could
  improve my abilities to write it.

37
(No Transcript)
38
Right Now

• Right Now
• A man must be eating a sandwich, or thinking of
  one.
• Youre reading my writing.
• I probably dont want to be in school.
• A cow is making noises.
• Refrigerator.
• Someone, somewhere, must be dancing.
• Theres a wombat. Named Tim.
• Bear is driving, how can that be?
• Car full of midgets.

39
A Brief History of Sneezing and All Sneeze
Related Subjects.

• I cant really say I know the complete history
  of sneezing and all sneeze-related subjects, but
  I believe I could make an educated and scholarly
  guess as to its origins.
• The word sneeze, defined as a rabid walrus in
  Tolomids Dictionary, originated in Scandinavia.
  Translated from Scandinavian, it roughly means a
  thin slice of cheese. The first recorded use of
  the word sneeze was in the classic novel
  Grishem Asen Voct, a masterfully-crafted piece
  of drama written by the great Norwegian author
  Hans Paltriss. When his readers saw his skilled
  use of this word, they began to use it in their
  own conversations in an attempt to look cultured
  and important.

40

• As more and more people began to use the word,
  however, it lost its cultural significance and
  was shunned by higher society.
• The word sneeze actually fell out of
  existence for some time. It would occasionally
  make itself know and appear in few sentences, but
  the meaning had been long forgotten and there
  were not enough people who cared enough to
  research the proper history. It seemed as though
  the word would disappear completely. That is,
  until the famous entrepreneur Ernest Barneman.
  Barneman actually had enough money to purchase
  the rights to the word sneeze and released it
  to the public once again. It cropped up in
  sentences everywhere and was seen as a very
  useful word, receiving wide support from many
  scholars and English professors everywhere.
• Today, the word sneeze is still used in our
  society. It has been around for quite some time
  now, but does not appear as though it shall be
  leaving us again any time soon. Though Barneman
  has since passed, his company still receives ten
  cents every time a person uses the word. And,
  when taken into account, means that this piece of
  writing has made his company eighty cents richer.

41
The Angered Sea

• My gaze passes through the window. Outside,
  less than a mile away, is the shore. Most days,
  its glow and cheerful aura greet me as I wake.
  This day, however, is different and strange. The
  sea seems angry, almost violent. Rough, choppy
  waves hurl themselves against the sand and
  connect with great force. The sky above the
  raging sea is dark and contains foreboding
  clouds. Harbingers of the storm to come. I can
  only wonder as to what has caused the great
  turmoil within the sea, and what it will do.
  Will it subside and slink into its usual
  calmness? Or shall it continue to rage like a
  wounded animal, retaliating against an attacker?

42
Dubious Disguises and Peculiar Personas

• If I could give myself a new persona or
  disguise myself, I would undertake the role of an
  eccentric millionaire by the name of Henry
  Flaskavits, since the name sounds like the name
  of an eccentric millionaire. I would be wearing
  a nice, stereotypical wealthy-person suit, and
  would have a cane, a top-hat, and a monocle that,
  every time I was surprised by something, I
  would let it fall as I shouted Good gravy!,
  because it sounds like it would be fun to do.

43
Rules

• The five-second rule will be strictly enforced.
• To own a walrus, you must possess a license to
  justify the ownership.
• Bears are exempt from jury duty.
• If you are carrying a concealed sandwich, you
  must wear a sign on your shirt that says so.
• Monocles cannot be worn on Tuesday.
• Fire hydrants always have the right-of-way.
• While riding a bike in the evenings, you must
  shout Im riding a bike! every minute.
• Top hats are to be worn at all times in a
  barbershop
• There can be no more than five waffles on a table
  at a time.
• If you give me a dollar, you can break a rule.

44
The Liquid Consumption Device

• SCENE OPENS WITH CUSTOMER POURING A DRINK INTO
  HANDS.
•  
• NARRATOR STOP! JUST WHAT DO YOU THINK YOURE
  DOING?
•  
• CUSTOMER TRYING TO QUENCH MY THIRST WITH A
  COOL, REFRESHING BEVERAGE, OF COURSE!
•  
• NARRATOR WOULD YOU CARE FOR A BETTER WAY TO
  DRINK?
•  
• CUSTOMER DROPS LIQUID INTO SINK AND NODS.
  SUDDENLY, THE PRODUCT (LIQUID CONSUMPTION DEVICE)
  APPEARS ON A TABLE NEXT TO CUSTOMER. CUSTOMER
  PICKS IT UP AND LOOKS IT OVER.
•  
• CUSTOMER WOW! WHAT IS IT?
•  
• NARRATOR THIS, MY FRIEND, IS AN LCD!
•  
• CUSTOMER LCD? ISNT THAT A TYPE OF COMPUTER
  SCREEN?
•  
• NARRATOR THAT IS ONLY A SINGLE TYPE OF LCD!
  THIS IS A LIQUID CONSUMPTION DEVICE.
•  
• CUSTOMER A LIQUID CONSUMPTION DEVICE? WOW!
  WHATS IT DO?

45

• NARRATOR YOU SIMPLY FILL THE LIQUID CONSUMPTION
  DEVICE WITH YOUR DESIRED BEVERAGE, RAISE IT TO
  YOUR MOUTH AND TAKE A DRINK! ITS THAT SIMPLE!
•  
• CUSTOMER FOLLOWS NARRATORS DIRECTIONS SLOWLY.
•  
• CUSTOMER WOW! NOW, THATS THE WAY TO DRINK!
•  
• NARRATOR NOW, YOU CAN SHOW OFF YOUR FANCY
  DRINKING SKILLS TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!
•  
• CUSTOMER I SURE CAN! JUST ONE QUESTION HOW
  DID YOU GET INTO MY HOUSE?
•  
• SCENE ENDS ABRUPTLY WITHOUT FINAL QUESTION BEING
  ANSWERED.

46
Falling Down

• Falling, falling, down to Earth
• Snow ushers in the Winters birth
• Traveling with it is the cold air
• Arriving quickly like a crazed mare
• Chilling you down to the very core
• Rays of Sun will hear no more.
• But please, do not be mistaken.
• For we are not the ones forsaken.
• The Sun shall make its return once again,
• And, at least, warm the snow to rain.

47
Clock Watching

• Clock watching-
• A favorite pass time
• Of each and every student

River Viewing
The flowing river Holding the red and brown
leaves Carries them downstream
48
I Dont Understand

• I dont understand
• Why chemistrys a class
• Why math is so hard
• Why my future depends on tests
• But most of all
• Why so many people are depressed
• Why so few have a bright future
• Why they stopped caring
• What I do understand is
• Why history is important
• Why Im not an adult just yet
• Why the sun rises every day.

A Rain
Rain falling outside Rushing to the ground
below Listening indoors Hoping the Sun will
appear And grace us with its presence.
49
Current Events

• The two towers fall
• Our President makes the call
• Weve been through this before
• Going off to war.
• Many say support the troops
• While others will declare that they are brutes.
• The cause of all of it?
• Far too many forget
• They never thought they could
• We knew that they would
• But I will try not to
• Because its all that I can do.

50
Reflections

• I like to think Ive become a much better writer
  than I was at the beginning. This year in
  Creative Writing has certainly broadened my
  horizons with writing and gotten me to try new
  types of writing.
• Taking your time and possibly re-writing certain
  assignments can be applied to other classes and
  activities. Revising previous work helps to make
  your work the best that it can be.
• My favorite (not necessarily my best, but my
  favorite) piece is my poem Falling Down. I
  never really felt as though I was all that good
  at poetry, but I personally enjoy that one and
  feel I made a decent effort at poetry with that
  piece.
• Taking a time for a brainstorming session before
  writing has become one of my most useful
  strategies. It allows me to collect my thoughts
  before I begin to write and gather together what
  it is I want to express.
• I certainly feel my skills in poetry improved
  after we spent time in class writing it. I at
  least feel as though Im competent in making it
  now.
• Ive learned that while I usually prefer to write
  nonsensical, crazy stories, if I truly try to put
  my mind to it, I can write something serious and
  meaningful.
• Should still probably work on that poetry. Ah,
  Ill get to it over the summer or something.