Anastasia Baran

Page 13 Cartoons

Shoshanna’s Ache

For a few years now, this had been Shoshanna’s greatest fear, dying utterly alone in bed, having only ever had pathetic, unfinished dreams of what it’s like to be kissed, caressed, held, or loved. Often times this feeling has plagued her; she has a hole in her chest, a vulnerable soft spot aching to be filled, or just touched for a brief moment of eternity.

By October 28, 2010

Page 13 Cartoons

I, Clodia

Once upon a time, we were young and ardent and that one organ in my cavernous chest pumped in time with yours. Your parents had named you Markus and when your lips parted to whisper in the close dark nights you always called me Clodia. At night you were sweet and slow and second-guessed every move you made.

By August 27, 2010

Page 13 Cartoons

General Ashcombe

She sat quietly in the winter night, watching as the air turned her breath into a soft, white mist, curling slowly away from her person. She had what they all wanted, that is, a soldier of her own, and not just a soldier, but an officer.

By March 18, 2010

Page 13 Cartoons

Prophet

In the eternal darkness that is a winter midnight, I threw all my suspicions to the wind and consulted a false prophet. I’ve been lonely as of late, waiting for a knight—any knight—even one riding by in tarnished armor on a sickly nag, to stop for me. The mood was just right for me to be properly duped into thinking I was Venus.

By January 21, 2010

Page 13 Cartoons

Faith Healer

You lay there dying, and you want to give up. I can see it, I sense it with every shallow breath you take. Because you were too personally selfish, I... Read more

By December 3, 2009