flash fiction.

Flash Fiction: Splitting Hairs by Mark Tulin

“Did you notice that Jackson Browne has never changed his hairstyle?” Jon said to Ronnie after attending the folk singer’s concert.

Ronnie snarled back, “How dare you talk about his hair!” 

“Ronnie, I love his music, but I think he needs a bit of a follicular makeover.”

Ronnie shook his head. “You’re just insecure about men who still have their hair. You’re bald. You don’t have a right to talk about people with hair.”

“Ronnie,” Jon said.  “I’m sorry to offend your idol, but I’m just making an observation.  I think he would look better with a more contemporary cut.” 

“The way a man wears his hair is no business of yours or mine, Jon.  It’s a personal decision, and it should stay that way. I don’t tell you that you’d look better with a hairpiece, do I?” 

Ronnie, noticeably upset, walked off in a huff.

To this day, Jon and Ronnie have a strained friendship and stay away from specific taboo topics such as a man’s haircut.  In the meantime, Jackson Browne still maintains the same hairstyle and has a successful career despite it.  

Unknown's avatar

I am an author, poet, humorist, and short story writer living in Long Beach, California. I write about various topics, from my early childhood in Philadelphia to my years as a family therapist and finally to my soul-searching in California. These are poetic narratives that may have humorous or serious content or both. Either way, I hope my poetry and stories resonate with you. My books include Magical Yogis, Uncommon Love Stories, Awkward Grace, Junkyard Souls, and Rain on Cabrillo.

9 comments on “Flash Fiction: Splitting Hairs by Mark Tulin

  1. Rosaliene Bacchus's avatar

    Amazing how we can let a bit of hair get in the way of a friendship.

  2. Liz Gauffreau's avatar

    Very funny! (And for the record, Jackson Browne’s haircut has not aged well.)

  3. Theresa's avatar

    Oh man, did that give me a giggle! Thanks, Mark!

  4. johnlmalone's avatar

    hair comes and goes; mostly goes in us males 😦 always loved Jackson Browne; was never aware of his hair style though 🙂

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