Creative Writing: The Handmaid's Tale

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Prologue Revision His heart pounded; he was perspiring heavily, which made it difficult to keep his grasp on the gasoline can as he stealthily crept through the woods in the cool darkness. Out of desperation, he had made his choice. Unaware of the incongruity, he unconsciously thanked God that it is an isolated rural road and no neighbors live closely on this side of it. Nevertheless, each twig that cracked underfoot in the silence only added to the thunder that raged in his aching head, causing him to flinch. Conscience drew back in revulsion and fear at what he was about to do. However, if he didn’t complete this deed, he would lose his business and the land. Jesse wouldn’t see reason about the money he owed him with the high interest. …show more content…

If Jesse hadn’t been so stubborn, he wouldn’t be making this hidden trek tonight with his gas can, but after tonight, he wouldn’t have to worry anymore. Reaching the end of the ridge, he stopped, looking down at the lonely cabin in the hollow. Everyone knew Jesse drank until he passed out in the evenings. Jesse’s big, white dog was his only worry. His stomach tight with tension, he looked carefully around. He could see no dog. It must be inside. Tension easing slightly, he began to slip and slide down the wooded slope carefully as he drew near the old cabin. Every detail appeared stark and clear. As he stood near the home, he saw the grain in the aged wood of Jesse’s logs. He paused. His eyes lit on a crudely carved smiling face made of hickory, more grimace than smile. He could recall sitting with Jesse as he carved it proudly. Consequently, he hadn’t had the heart to tell him it was actually horrid looking. His daze broke. Tonight became real. The gas can weighed heavily in his hand as sour bile began a burning climb up his throat. Hurry! His mind screamed .Hands shaking, he bent over and removed the cap from the gasoline can. Quickly now, he unsteadily began to slosh the gasoline down the sides of the small home. His legs felt unable to support him. He heard no

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