When a sweater isn't just a sweater


Linda: Why don't you just get rid of it.

Jack: What?

Linda: That (pointing at his old rugby sweater). You said you'd get rid of it. You were going to take it to the thrift shop.

Jack: I'm thinking about it.

Linda: What do you mean 'thinking about it'? Either you are or you aren't.

Jack: I like it. It's not like I wear it when we go out or anything. What's the big deal?

Linda: No big deal. It just bugs me when you say you're going to do something and then don't.

Jack: It's comfortable. It's good to have something around that's comfortable.

Linda: And what about the new one I bought for you?

Jack: That's different.

Linda: What's different about it?

Jack: It's not as comfortable.

Linda: What do you mean not comfortable?

Jack: I said "not as" comfortable. It's broken in – comfortable – I can relax in it. It's good for lounging around – when I can't find something to wear.

Linda: You could break in the new one. Don't you like it?

Jack: Of course I do. I love it. It's my favourite. Just because I still like the old one doesn't mean I don't like yours.

Linda: You could have fooled me!

Jack: You're making way too big a thing out of this! Will it make you happy if I get rid of it?

Linda: Yes.

Jack: Alright then. Tomorrow. I'll do it tomorrow.


From Thirteen Prompts by Dan Wiencek:
Write a scene showing a man and a woman arguing over the man's friendship with a former girlfriend. Do not mention the girlfriend, the man, the woman, or the argument.

Comments

Anonymous said…
I'm glad you include the prompt, so we know what you had to work with. Once again, you've done more good writing!
June 25, 2008 8:47 pm
Anonymous said…
I like it! That's fun and clever. Good one!
June 25, 2008 10:32 pm
Anonymous said…
This one was fun...just for the fun of the old clothes dilemma. I am getting along now and simply must give up on the 32 waist. Two upstairs closets could be put to better use. memory is not what it used to be...they could be clothes of guests over the years.I know I never wore those dresses...even in private...I swear. And there's the ugly pile of sweaters that replaced the sports jacket in the classroom for those of us who still wear ties.
I read you piece first, not knowing the prompt. After I read the prompt I laughed aloud. Very provocative. Thanks for the treat.
June 26, 2008 10:56 am
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