Gemotions

A tremor ran through David’s hand as he held his phone, staring at the screen. The email from his old college, gushing about the publication of his application essay, practically vibrated with forced enthusiasm. He ran a hand through his hair, dislodging a few stray strands. “‘A Tale of Two Toasters’? Really?” He scoffed, his voice tight.

He pictured the smug editor who had made the selection, probably some fresh-out-of-grad-school kid eager to prove themselves. He imagined them reading his deeply personal exploration of breakfast appliances to a room full of other academics and potential students. David felt a wave of nausea. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, trying to calm the feeling that he needed to scream.