Back Story: Courtesy Kiss by Kim Bond
“Courtesy Kiss” was originally inspired by When Harry Met Sally. If it’s a good movie, it makes good inspiration for a short story, right? From the popular film, I borrowed the idea of two strangers who exchange views mainly through dialogue with some romantic tension and light humor. I decided a discount store was an ideal setting for the unlikely couple to meet.
Once I had written the first paragraph, I saw the crossing boundaries theme emerge. Humans create boundaries around things we consider sacred, such as our time, morals, and money. Alternately, we trample other people’s boundaries to fulfill our own needs and desires. Bit by bit, I wrote this tango between my two characters. When it came time to conclude the dance, I examined myself for insight into human nature. One boundary I confess to standing firm on is my emotional boundary line. Like the main character, I refuse to let others cross it, and sometimes deny myself access to it as well. Nonetheless, I recognize emotions are finest when shared with other people. “Courtesy Kiss” is the culmination of cinematic inspiration, cultural observation, and deep self-examination behind the scenes, but it reads like a charming tale.
Other ponderings by Kim Bond can be found in Gloom Cupboard, Midnight Screaming, and Full Armor Magazine. The author enjoys life in St. Louis with her compatible quarreler and their two children. Read “Courtesy Kiss” in the fall 2011 issue of Rose & Thorn Journal. Email Kim at k.bondofstl@yahoo.com to discuss writing, human nature, culture, faith and/or tailless cats.
Thanks for sharing your inspirations with us, Kim. Really enjoyed "Courtesy Kiss."
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