Writing Challenge: Map it Out

Welcome to Rolbos. The challenge is to show whre the place is, and what’s happening there. The Kalahari is vast, covering more than 350,000 square miles. That’s right, square miles! To find Rolbos you turn north-east at Grootdrink and then pray you are on the right track. The first sign of civilized life, will be the old-fashioned cooling-room on Kleinpiet’s farm. Stop for a drink and a chat. Precilla always has something in the oven: fresh baked bread and jam will help you along the rest of the journey.

Your next landmark is the wreck of the first vehicle to attempt to reach Rolbos. It was in 1925, and it’s still there, right next to the track Keep going..

Now watch out for the windpump on your left. Don’t try to drink the water – it’s brackish. Vetfaan once used it to top up his radiator, and had to replace the engine soon after.

About ten kilometres out, you’ll see the ruins of the first dwellings ever built here. There is a sad story attached to the building – it was said to be haunted. A love triangle in the 30’s resulted in the lady in question wandering off into the desert. She was never found. The disgruntled husband left the farm to try his hand at delving for diamonds near Kimberley.

You’re almost there. Vetfaan’s farm is next. If you’re in not much of a hurry, he’ll show you the Land Rover he still wants to get back on the road.

And suddenly, almost by surprise, you’re there. Roblos! Quaint and isolated and old-fashioned. This is Sammie’s shop. Cold Coke is next to the door in the fridge. Get one.

And opposite the street, the object of your visit. Boggel’s Place. Come, sit down, and listen to the stories. Boggel will supply the beer. All you have to do, is sit back and enjoy the company. In this isolated little village, visitors are welcome. Maybe, if they’re lucky, you will tell your own story. After all, there’s not much else to do around here; and what would life be without a good yarn or two?