Shoe Stories
One of the prompts at a recent workshop invited the writer to tell about a particular pair of shoes from the past, present or future. This simple prompt opened the door to so many stories of life that our shoes have carried us through. Whether it is a pair of bejeweled dance shoes or some well-worn leather sandals, everyone seems to have a beloved pair that we simply cannot part with. Perhaps we keep them for the memory of the past or for the hope of new adventures. If you feel inspired, send along your own shoe story to info@writewithcommunity.org
Krista Allen
The Pile concert at the Middle East was packed. The floor felt sticky. Patrick had wandered off for another drink. Bodies jostled for space on the dance floor.
“¡Viva las computadoras!”
“What?!”
It was impossible to hear people’s words. I smiled and nodded.
Patrick was back. The man was reading the slogan on his yellow retro t-shirt.
“I lost my shoe!” he exclaimed.
Patrick reached down, removing one of his canvas docksiders.
“Here, have mine!”
“But–”
“Come on!”
He grabbed my hand, pulling me outside onto the icy sidewalk.
“You just gave away your shoe!”
Patrick shrugged.
“He needed it!”
Michele Bolton
The store beckoned like a waterfall in the desert. After five long days and 50,000-plus steps, my ill-fitting shoes had become medieval torture devices, stabbing and burning as if four sizes too small after a forced walk on hot coals. I was cooked. Then, a miracle. Primark! In Galway City. What an amazing find. Inside, I discovered a glistening display of soft black leather booties. With thick, cushioned insoles. Tie-up support. Add a cute ankle fold and a $12 price tag. It’s me, Cinderella, I said, settling into a seat to try them on. A perfect fit. No prince needed!
Midori Evans
“Twelve bridesmaids? I’ve never heard of anyone having so many! Are you all wearing the same dress?” Helen’s mom couldn’t believe what she was hearing.
“No, we’re just supposed to come in something nice. And bring Keds.” Helen brushed a hair off her forehead and turned the kettle on.
“Bring kids?”
“Keds! You know, the sneaker?” Helen took the phone off speaker.
“What do sneakers have to do with bridesmaids?” Helen’s mom loved weddings but this one was confusing her.
“We’re supposed to wear Keds for the wedding – each with our own color or design. I’m painting mine lime green!”
Sarah Kiepper
Who knew when I got heavier I wouldn’t be able to wear high heels anymore? I inherited my paternal grandmother’s flat feet, and now also have wider feet due to weight gain. Flats and strappy sandals are my daily choices now. Many fabulous pairs of shoes have found their way to me, but I most mourn wearing my black sequin peep toe stilettos. We had amazing times dancing the night away. They perfectly paired with a short skirt for a date. My sister said my legs went on for miles, and I covered a lot of ground in those heels!
Deborah Coderre
Where are you taking your dear Birkenstocks today? Are we going back to that ancient little town in the Azores where we climbed up and down the rocky paths with one side to the mountains and the other to the sea? I remember that June day was a hot one, and the black volcanic stones were scorching. Your feet grew calloused, and your burned toes may never be the same. Remember, it was your choice to wear me because you always need to feel the earth close to your feet. Point me towards any adventure, and I will humbly acquiesce.
