Stage of Confidence

PROMPT: Flash Fiction Competition 2020

She scanned the ocean of seats containing better versions of herself and dropped the façade of confidence as no one clapped.
Someone coughed. Another returned the cough. A third sneezed.
Take note of the atmosphere: A summer night with a breeze. Plenty of stars above. Stillness all around, spectators known as stars looking back.
Putting on her jacket of self-doubt she planned to wear for the rest of her life – not even taking it off to shower, she let her heels clack the stained floor as she left behind the curtain.

A story about how confidence leaves a girl after giving a performance on stage in front of a large audience. This is a second-draft. I would appreciate any and all feedback that comes my way!

Peer Review

What drew you into this story? How did the writer pique your interest?

The title was an eyecatcher for me just because I knew the story would most likely be about self doubt, which is something everyone has faced.

Flash fiction requires the writer to use the power of suggestion—planting an idea or question in the reader’s head without explaining fully. Where did the writer do this successfully?

The part when she puts on this jacket of self-doubt was very well written in my opinion, and was something I think everyone has done at some point.

Were there any places where maybe too much was left unsaid, leaving you confused?

The "Better versions of herself" bit was good, but if possible I feel like more could be explained as to why she's seeing herself and not blank faces.

What words of encouragement do you have for this writer as they continue drafting their story?

This is really good and honestly brought back some suppressed embarrassment haha, but I'm all here for it. The fact that you were able make me feel something using description of the setting, is great!

Reviewer Comments

Overall great work! I'm actually new to WTW and would really appreciate some feedback as well.