Gemotions

He reread the review, the words etching themselves into his memory. He felt a throbbing pulse in his temples. He gripped the edge of the table, knuckles white. He considered the critic's points, trying to find some truth, but the negativity overwhelmed him.

He canceled all his appointments. He ignored his phone. He sat in his darkened apartment, unable to move. He felt a deep sense of inadequacy, as if his talent had abandoned him.

He pulled the blinds shut, shutting out the world. The silence pressed in on him, a suffocating blanket. He felt the sting of tears prick his eyes.