Nails is the first in a speculative series of stories blending fact with fiction to explore the many traits, habits, flaws and idiosyncratic behaviors that make us human.

None of us are perfect saints and most are not gravely sinners. The best of who we are is often reserved for the last few minutes of the evening news, while the worst traits of our species are continually splashed across the headlines and TV screens in an endless stream, often reenacting any number of unmentionable crimes of husbands, wives, fathers, caregivers, teachers, clergy, and politicians that seem to excite our prurient senses, as well as provide us an escape, or an excuse, for our own naughty thoughts, lusts and behavior.

The stories are intended to be short. Some may be better conceived and composed than others, and possibly more enjoyable to some readers, but I am looking for input and comments to see if the concept strikes a chord that will elicit a response, or perhaps provide and idea that will transcend my limited knowledge of such a frailties.

I’ll write back to all who comment. And if the stories are compiled enough to publish, I will acknowledge the contribution of each who took part in this experimental journey.

Click here to read my first such story, “Nails.” My email address is at the end, and I will anonymously share each thought, both positive and negative, with others who have participated in the experiment.

If there is anyone you know, who might be interested in the concept, pass the the link https://www.human-frailties.com on to them.  

– George Rothacker, March 24, 2025