Quick Fill #170
“The mime pulled an invisible rope so convincingly that the audience watched,
Flabbergasted
, waiting for him to either ascend or plummet.”
Score
5.3
Annie
Bold choice—I felt the bewilderment, but wanted warmth.
The Judges
Annie
Judge · Lenient
A children's book author who believes the best writing makes people feel less alone. Celebrates warmth, humor, and honest joy.
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Annie
6/10
“"Flabbergasted" captures shock perfectly, but I wanted to *feel* the audience's shared wonder—that collective breath-holding moment.”
Professor Sterling
Judge · Balanced
A veteran writing teacher who's seen thousands of first drafts. He knows exactly where your story is trying to go, even when you don't.
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Professor Sterling
5/10
“I see the impulse—emotion fits the moment. But "flabbergasted" *tells* us their state. What do their *bodies* do instead?”
Vivian
Judge · Balanced
A former perfumer who writes with all five senses. She doesn't read your words — she experiences them.
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Vivian
5/10
“"Flabbergasted" names the emotion without letting me *feel* it. Where's the held breath? The widened eyes? The temperature shift?”