There are many ways to tell a story. An author can simply tell the story, or the author can use an epistolary approach (e.g. letters, emails or texts). It’s even possible to tell a story through lists. Really.
To show you what I mean, here is a list of contents found in an Atlantic City luxury hotel room in which the body of a man who was shot was discovered. I’ve an idea in my own mind about what happened, but my idea isn’t the only possibility. So, I invite you to read the list of contents and then work out what happened. When you’ve read it, I would love to know your theory!
Found in a Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa Room Occupied by Thomas Gafner, 56
On or Near Table
Two tumblers, both with traces of liquid in them
One bottle of Glenfiddich single-malt scotch whiskey, half empty
One ashtray, used
Two Padrón cigars, stubbed out in ashtray
One photograph of an unidentified man
In Trash Can Near Table
Two cigar bands, Padrón label
Two cellophanes
One used tissue
On Nightstand
One iPhone 17 Pro
One set of keys
One cigarette lighter
On and near Bed (Location of Body)
Bedding (blood on bedding): four pillows, flat sheet, fitted sheet, quilt, blanket
One bullet (in wall next to bed)
One bullet casing (on floor next to bed)
On and Near Desk
One Apple MacBook
One casino voucher for US$100
One receipt from Level One Cocktail Bar and Lounge (located in hotel)
In Bathroom
Countertop: One bottle of Dior Savage men’s cologne, one toothbrush, one razor, one comb, one tube of Crest toothpaste, one bottle of acetaminophen
Trash can: empty
In Closet
Three suits
Three shirts
Three ties
One suitcase, empty
In Drawers
Three pairs of Derek Rose men’s briefs
Three white t-shirts
Three pairs of black socks
So, what do you think happened? I’m really interested to know your thoughts!
*NOTE: The title of this post is a line from Paul Melvyn Carrack’s How Long.
Crime Writer Margot Kinberg 