I attempted to write in the third person point of view like Raymond Carver, by writing a story in a story. I also used allegory, and the general message in this set piece is to appreciate everything around you before it vanishes. I like this set piece because it reminds me of my dog, who is written as the “friend” in this story.

When he was young, he had a friend who he hung out with every day. When he came back from school, his friend would always stand at the front door, waving at him with a warm grin. Even if he was sad or tired, his friend would always jump on him, trying to play fetch with him. His friend never talked, but they could communicate through feelings and their eyes. 

Most of the time, his mom and dad were busy, so his friend was the only place to talk to and rely on. As time went on, he turned 11. He got busy. He had to do school homework and after-school activities. Eventually, he started to change. He didn’t spend his day just petting him or playing with his friend’s favorite toy. 

I don’t have time for you. I'm busy. Go play by yourself, he said

His friend didn’t say anything but again smiled. 

He was completely inattentive to his friend. He didn’t spend time with his friend but instead he would go out and hang out with his other friends or just watch Youtube. 

Time flew by and his friend slowly became old. It was too late when he realized that his time with his friend was running out. His friend was too tired and old to play with him.

One day when he came back from school, he felt something was missing. His friend was gone. He looked at himself, feeling guilty and numb. I’m sorry, he mumbled. For a long moment, he stared at the empty space where his friend used to be.