Seed is a community dedicated to celebrating storytelling. Each week, three people are selected to write a ‘Seed’ in less than 100 words, inspired by one image.

Solitude, by Chelsea Gurr.

Solitude, it’s all he needs. He rises early. Before the birds, before the kids wake for school, before his phone pings to life with messages that will taint his mind. Silence. He creeps across the room, careful to avoid the creaky floorboard, slips out the door, and exhales. 

It’s chilly, and the lake is still and eerie, but it’s peaceful. Only the trees for company, and whatever lies beneath. He takes a deep breath. The air is earthy and sharp, it hurts his lungs. First a toe, then a foot, then the other. Submerge.

He’s awake. He’s alive. He’s Joe. 

Seed by Chelsea Gurr. Image by unknown.