This post is in response to the prompt at ‘100 Word Challenge for Grown Ups’ here, where you will find a list of links to all the responses. Essentially, the brief was to write 104 words, including the phrase shown in bold in my piece below.
There was once a time when Khrushchev, the Russian leader, was giving a speech in which he denounced Stalin, and in particular, some of the things he did. Suddenly, from the audience, someone shouted out something like “You were one of his men – why didn’t you do something about it?” At this, Khrushchev bellowed “WHO SAID THAT?”
Seconds ticked by. As they say, the silence was deafening. Evidently, the heckler did not dare to reply. No-one else spoke. Finally, Khrushchev broke the silence himself, in gentle tones that were in dramatic contrast to his outburst moments before.
“Now…” he said. “Now, you know why.”
It's kind to share!
Cool! I liked the irony and drama in your piece. Good job.
Thank you. I’d love to know just where this happened!
Very good. Is it a true story?
Thank you. And yes, reputedly so!
Fabulous and very strong writing.
Brilliant, I’ve never heard this and you have written it very powerfully.
That’s fascinating. Never heard that tale before. Cleverly appropriated for the prompt.
Well done.
Now that’s a sinister ending
Really powerful writing. I could really feel the tension of the situation.
gripping and can feel the tension- good stuff!
Beautifully done.