1700 Words

Oliver sat in a small doctor’s clinic in Mumbai, twisting his hands nervously. The doctor looked serious. “Oliver, here’s the news. You’ve got only 1,700 words left to live. Every word matters.” He slid a small device across the table, showing 1,700.

After hearing this, Oliver’s throat went dry. He felt very thirsty, like his mouth was full of sand. “What?” he said, his voice shaking. The device beeped: 1,699. He didn’t understand at first. His mind raced with worry. Were words his life now? He licked his lips, grabbed the device, and ran out, desperate for water.

Outside, Mumbai buzzed — cars honked, vendors shouted about vada pav — but he couldn’t find a drink. His mouth stayed dry, and fear took over. He started talking to himself, fast and nervous. “This can’t be real! No way! I’m so thirsty, 1,500 words? That’s not much. I need water! What’s happening? Oh no, oh no…”

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What will you do when you realize your words are limited?

1700 words