I wrote a story based on that encounter and a shortened version was published on the Cafe Lit website and published in their Cafe Lit 3 anthology.
You can read the story
HERE
I didn't take his photograph - it would have been too crass to ask his permission, so here are some other photos instead.
That is an amazing story and so well told, thank you.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Ros. The man I met carried a sense of sadness but also incredible dignity. I'm glad you liked the story, and thanks for visiting my blog.
DeleteI can see why that encounter had such an impact.
ReplyDeleteIt really did, Patsy. I felt very humbled by it.
DeleteHow many ruined lives? But not only in Cambodia, Susan. It's a sad world out there.
ReplyDeleteYes, lots of sadness, Jo - but sometimes I think it's necessary to have a reality check every once in a while, and I've seen many uplifting things on my travels too to balance things out.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness it is hard to imagine the pain, emotional and physical he endured. I can very much see why this chance encounter has stuck with you Susan.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sue. I probably ought to highlight the fact that this story is fictional. I didn't question the real bookseller like my journalist in the story - he volunteered the information. Nor did the real man react with bitterness at my questions when we talked about what happened to him. :)
DeleteThis is such a powerful and horrific story, Susan. I'm not surprised it stayed with you. We should be thankful every day of the life we have xxxx
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, Dianne. It's all too easy to forget to be thankful as we go about our own busy lives.
ReplyDeletePowerful story, Susan.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lizy. Both my husband and I walked away with tears in our eyes after talking to him.
ReplyDeleteLove your pictures! Your story is really powerful, Susan!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Agness - and sorry it's taken me so long to publish your comment!
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