Hello, and welcome to Drabbletober Season 2. This is episode 8 for Wednesday the eighth of October, 2025.
It’s Amazing What They Pick Up
by Elizabeth Guilt
Grandmother always gave interviews from her chaise longue. She reclined gracefully, surrounded by framed playbills and photographs, hands stroking the sleek, velvet upholstery.
When the local vicar called, grandmother received him, tight-lipped, at her desk. He took one look at the chaise's brownish stains and threadbare patches and stood, awkwardly, while she lectured him.
I sneaked in for a story, and clambered onto the chaise.
"It looks different," I said, prodding the luxurious, puffy, pink cushions.
Grandmother laughed, and patted the wooden armrest.
"Oh, I took this chaise from the old Theatre Royal. It can play any part you like."
Today's story is dedicated to a chaise that lives at my local theatre. Last time I saw it, it was playing a sofa in a young woman's sitting room, in 1974 Sri Lannka. Next time I see it - if I recognise it - it will be something quite different.