this is a story that i wrote in an english exam recently, our area of study is 'the imaginative journey', and i had to write a story incorporating the quote "everyone needs a path on which to travel, its just a matter of finding the right one"
Johnson read the pamphlet which his doctor had concernedly placed in his hand " What you need is a break, a chance to get away. Your health insurance should cover the costs. Just claim it as work related stress ", he had advised.
" Need a break? " the pamphlet demanded in gaudy colours. " Get away from it all with ' Worlds of Fantasy ' , the leader in neuro-holidays. Choose from our wide catalogue of scenarios, or have one custom written just for you at an extra charge. Seamless simulation of experience guaranteed, or your money back! Fight among your comrades in the trenches of the first world war! Come of age in a poignant tale of boyhood innocence in a small town in mid 20th century America. It ' s your life- let us help you live it"
Johnson ' s plight was not unique in the 22nd century. Exponential advances in science and technology had led to the complete automisation of life. Food was plentiful, menial labour jobs were performed by automatons, and all luxuries were affordable for a minimal price. In short, the struggle for happiness and success which had characterized human life up to this point had been abolished, and this had created a vacuum in man ' s subconscious. With everything unconditionally provided for him, there was no struggle, no aspiration, no journey. For countless millennia man had struggled toward a better lot in life, and now that it was unconditionally granted to him, he felt unfulfilled and empty. Little did he realise that he had needed the journey itself more than the destination. The neuro-holidays provided him with the defining stories which he yearned for, distilled simulacrums of the experiences of his ancestors.
Johnson sighed as he continued to perused his options. " Revolt against your bourgeiouse opressors with your comrade workers, and bring equality to your homeland " " compete for your country in sporting final of your choosing " " Everyone needs a path on which to travel " he thought " I guess its just a matter of choosing the right one "
i have to admit i was somewhat pleased with it, at least enough to type out and share with you guys. id really like some constructive criticism, which is where you come in....
27 Aug 2004, 7:36 am
