David

I did this for a workshop. We had to write a story based on a song. I chose the song "David" by Passenger.

David

David walks on the bay, his figure dark in front of the tiring sun making its way home. A cigarette burns between his fingers, his sights set on the water. He looks at the boats and the men working on them. He watches them finishing up for the night, probably heading home to a family and a warm dinner sitting on the table. David walks at the bay at this time everyday. I believe lonely people are good at creating routines, even if they are simple. He sees me and waves his hand subtly, I wave back. He continues his journey, taking his time to observe every boat he passes. Working with the public, I’ve seen some people. I took this job working at the ferry ticket booth to get me through school. Staring down at my paperwork I heard footsteps on the pavement. Another customer, I thought. I look up to see David. His features are aged, his facial hair gray. It’s as if his bodies light is dull, but the light in his eyes outshines it. His eyes are filled with want and need. His eyes are desperate for affection, a need for to receive love, and give it back.

“David.” I smiled “How can I help you today?”

He smirked and laid down a five dollar bill on the counter.

“Wanna hook me up with a ticket?” He asked me “I’m good sonny. How are you?”

I stared down at the five. I wish I could. If I had extra cash on me I would help. A ferry ticket to the next port is ten dollars.

“David, you know the prices.” I said, sliding the five back towards him.

“Ah. Yes I know. I’m low on funds, my boy.”

“Sorry to hear that. Where do you need to go?” I asked him. David turned around and leaned on the counter, taking a drag of his cigarette.

“Anywhere.” He said to me. “I wanted to see that new ship close up, maybe have a chat with the caption and his crew.”

“Put the five to the side. You’re halfway there.” I told him.

We did not talk for a few minutes as I resumed my paper work. He watched the sun go down, and the vibrant colors of the lightly cloudy sky. The pinks, reds and yellows.

“You know” He began. “My life was not supposed to end up like this.” He threw his cigarette to the floor, and crushed it with his foot.

“Why’s that?” I asked.

David turned his head to me, all the humanity he has to offer in his eyes shining towards me.

“I’ve told you a few times about my fascination with boats and ships. I used to be a welder by trade, working in a place like this. It was beautiful, a vibrant little community. The men I worked with would all go to the pubs after we finished, we would get drinks. I had friends, good friends. I had a family too. I would not stay out too long at night. My wife did not want to be alone, I wouldn’t let her. It was sweet. I wish I appreciated it more. I wish I had more pictures to look at, because I don’t see life ever becoming that sweet again” He told me.

I never knew David had a family. I thought he was one of those retired men who never found a person who they could call home. I guess he did have a home, and now he is homeless.

“What happened David?”

“I got older, like anything does. My wife and I married late, had the kids late. I wanted to live my life. My hands got shaky, my thoughts became warped. I changed. Paralysis. I did not satisfy my wife the same way anymore and we began to fight. One day she told me to leave. Out of respect I did. I went down to a motel, I ended up staying there for quite a while. She never asked me to come back. I was angry, thought that she needed me and would beg for me. She did not need me. I should have fought for her and my kids, but I didn’t. Not until it was too late. Sonny boy, fight for those you love. Never take anything for granted and do not let the things you love slip through your fingers. Never lose your zest for life. Please…”

“So you decided to come out here… why?” I asked him.

“They had a program for those who lost their jobs because of a disability. I was running out of money and needed a bed to sleep on. Now the days go by slower. I go to doctor appointments, I meet with a support group. Never thought those would be the highlights of my days. I’ve been out here for years, my kids are older. The world never stopped spinning out here, it just went and changed without me.”

“David, we lost you a long time ago.” I told him. “It’s not too late.”

“If that were the case, it would be a blessing. But it’s not too late for you.”

Later on that night I walked into my apartment where Lola, my girlfriend, was residing. She was sitting on the couch, her nose in a book. She glanced back at me, and then went back into her book without a word. Things have not been good lately. Life has been getting us as we struggle to make ends meet. We go days without speaking, make love without affection and fight as if we’ve been married for years. I hung my jacket on the back of a chair, and then made my ways towards her. I slowly sat next to her, as she watched me from behind the pages of her book. I grabbed her and pulled her in, as I wrapped my arms around her. I kissed her head, feeling the tears running down my cheeks. This is what David would do if he had one more chance. This is what he probably dreams of at night, the chance to hold his love in his arms and fall asleep with her on his chest. Lola looked up at me.

“Are you okay?” She asked me.

“We will be”.

Reviews

[Diane]

Oh wow! If this was aiming to send chills down my spine, it worked.