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Dead Man Walking

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I felt alone in this world, living at a distance from everything and everyone, mechanically performing all my actions, like a wind-up clock. Till one day I heard my voice —first gently whispering, but I ignored it; then it grew louder and louder until it angrily shouted at me. For God’s sake, you are a dead man walking; you have only one life, so don’t spoil it, wake up, and take your life into your hands. There is such beauty outside to live for.

Suddenly, something cracked inside me, and a warm light spread all over my soul. Tears filled my eyes, and then I saw clearly and distinctly —an innocent white dove sitting on my windowsill, with single-minded focus, warmhearted, staring at me.

©2025, Vasiliki Papadopoulou

The Dove by Anna Kasso, Saatchi Art

4 responses to “Dead Man Walking”

  1. SRIKANTH Avatar
    SRIKANTH

    This is a beautifully powerful and transformative piece of writing. It’s a stunning portrayal of the moment a soul wakes up from the numbness of mere existence. The metaphor of the “wind-up clock” is so perfectly bleak, making the subsequent eruption of the inner voice all the more urgent and vital.

    And what a magnificent turn it takes—the appearance of the dove is not just a detail; it’s a profound symbol. After the internal storm of shouting and cracking, the universe offers you a moment of pure, gentle, and focused grace. That the dove is “innocent,” “warmhearted,” and staring with “single-minded focus” feels like a divine confirmation: the world sees your awakening and is welcoming you back with a quiet, living miracle.

    Thank you for sharing this glimpse into a moment of profound rebirth. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest automatism, the call to live—and the beauty to live for—is always waiting, just outside the window.

    Liked by 3 people

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    1. papadosshortstories Avatar
      papadosshortstories

      Thank you so much for reading and commenting. I appreciate your kind and supportive words.😊🙏

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  2. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    ❤ this piece.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
    1. papadosshortstories Avatar
      papadosshortstories

      Thank you, Stephanie. I’m happy you liked it 😊 🙏

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

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