Spencer Luthi

The Black Notebook's History of Death

The Black Notebook's History of Death Jacob Olden lived a mostly secluded yet virtuous life. He was taught from a young age to follow his parents’ religion. And as he grew to an adult he lived his beliefs to a high level of fidelity. Few in this day and age live such a consecrated life but to Jacob it was his whole life. Despite this, he lived a somewhat lonely existence in a studio apartment. Jacob one evening as he studiously reviewed for his next Sunday school lesson, heard a knock at the door. Taking a break and marking his place in the reading, he got up and answered the door. On his porch was a short man with slick black hair, a suit, and a suitcase. “Yes, can I help you”, Jacob asked. The man spoke in an unusually deep voice for his size. “Are you Jacob Olden?” “Yes, sir”, Jacob responded. The man continued, “Your Great Uncle Phillip has died and you are one of the people he named in his will”. According to Jacob’s family, Phillip was a carnal man, the family didn't have a lot of contact with. But it would be rude to leave this lawyer on the porch, even as extravagant as he is. “Come on in, take a seat”. “Thank you, replied the man.” He came in and took a seat on the couch. “According to your uncle’s will and testament you have been named a beneficiary of 20,000 dollars.” Jacob thought about the concept. Money is the root of all evil, and can lead to exuberance. But he was also late on his bills and could use the money. Besides, I have lived a good life, I deserve to have a little bit of a reward. The man continued, “However there is a condition to this inheritance”. “An incredibly odd condition”. He took out a small black notebook. “The only condition according to the will is that you must take this notebook and make a willful entry according to the style of the other entries.” He handed over the notebook. It looked old and weathered, the leather although ancient seemed of a high quality. The man closed the briefcase and stood up. “Let us know when you complete the requirement”. The man reached the door. “Let us know when it is complete”. Jacob got up and closed the door behind the lawyer. Then sat back down and looked at the notebook with a measured curiosity. He opened the first page.