Sour Lies

By Swanik Jain

“Life is easy”, a shriveled voice came from behind the rack of the library, where the young man was just pulling his book. He turned to see an old man behind the library racks. His eyes spoke experience and wisdom and his body was like of philosopher’s statue. And then the young man begin to ponder on the statement, ‘life is easy’ but he knew he wasn’t.

Born in a poor family who couldn't teach him anything but was put away to a job as a librarian to earn some extra to help in the household. From there, while working he taught himself subjects and learned skills as he aspired to be an automobile manufacturer. After reading almost every book on automobile engineering, he left his job and went to work for an automobile giant. After learning all the necessary skills, he again left the job but this time to start his own business. Life was so easy that after a week, the factory caught fire and burned every piece of equipment and machinery. He was here in the library again to find a book that teaches how to file bankruptcy.

The old man life’s was only very easy. At the age of 16, he rode ships to transport goods and people. Stayed in the sea for the next 10 years and then took a break, get married, and then worked as a bookkeeper for 5 years till his heart ached for sea. Again he sailed but this time he returned to find that a disease was widespread destroyed half the town. Half of the town included her wife. He resolved to never sail again and worked till the age of 60 as a bookkeeper.

But he didn't bother that long and replied with a big smile, “Indeed sir, life is easy”.

Both of them knew that that statement is false. The old man said to remind of his bitter past and the young man has believed it in hope of a better future.

By Swanik Jain