Write a story that ends with the statement: I had never felt so embarrassed in my life.

Answer Details

A narrative essay of this kind must build naturally toward the given closing sentence, which must appear word for word as the very last line. A clear setting, rising action, a climax of embarrassment and a brief reflection make a good story.

The Day of the Prize

For weeks the whole school had spoken of nothing but the inter-house debate. I had been chosen to lead my house, and, if I am honest, the choice had gone to my head. I told everyone who cared to listen that the trophy was as good as ours, for I was certain no one could match my command of the English language. I spent more time boasting than preparing, and I refused the notes my quiet teammate, Ngozi, kept offering me.

The great day came. The hall was packed to the rafters with students, teachers and invited parents. When my turn came, I strode to the microphone with the confidence of a champion, my chin raised high. I opened my mouth to deliver the brilliant argument I had rehearsed in my head, and then it happened. My mind went suddenly, completely blank.

I stared at the sea of faces. Not a single sentence would come. I cleared my throat, shuffled the few cards I had scribbled that morning, and mumbled something that made no sense at all. A ripple of laughter ran through the hall. My hands began to shake. The more I struggled, the worse it became, until the master of ceremonies gently asked me to take my seat. I walked back with my eyes fixed on the floor, my ears burning, wishing the ground would open and swallow me.

To crown it all, quiet Ngozi rose in my place, spoke with grace and logic, and won the debate for our house almost single-handedly. The applause that should have been mine was hers, and richly deserved. As I sat there clapping with the others, my cheeks hot with shame, I finally understood the price of pride and idleness.

That evening I thanked Ngozi and begged her forgiveness, and I resolved never again to trade preparation for boasting. But the memory of that hall, of the laughter and the pitying stares, still makes me wince. I had never felt so embarrassed in my life.