Manual Transmission

In response to the following creative writing prompt from my "Crafting the Vision" class, I created a comical dialogue between two high school students on the topic of "manual transmission."

"For your journal next week, write a short essay about 'manual transmission.'  Although you might have an image popping into your mind from just hearing the word, I have included definitions of "manual" and "transmission" to get you to think and react.  I am not looking for a specific answer, but for YOUR answer.  How long?  As long as you want it to be.

manual

adjective

1. physical, human, done by semi-skilled and unskilled manual work

2. hand-operated, hand, non-automatic.  There is a manual pump to get rid of water.

noun

handbook, guide, instructions, bible, guidebook, workbook, enchiridion (rare) the instruction manual

transmission

noun

1. transfer, spread, spreading, communication, passing on, circulation, dispatch, relaying, mediation, imparting, diffusion, transference, dissemination, conveyance, channeling the transmission of knowledge and skills

2. broadcasting, showing, putting out, relaying, sending.  The transmission of the programme was brought forward.

3. programme, broadcast, show, production, telecast.  A webcast is a transmission using the internet."

_________

Lydia: Hey Jake! Do you wanna join Manual Transmission Club? It’s really neat and everyone is getting involved!

Jake: Manual transmission? What do you guys do, install transmissions into cars while learning to drive standard?

Lydia: Do I look like a mechanic?

Jake: I don’t know about your hidden talents. Oh wait, I get it.  You started a group to do snazzy handshakes with. Is the purpose to share companionship, or germs?

Lydia: That’s so fifth grade Jake.

Jake: Whatever you say, but I could swear I saw you fist-bumping Danielle just the other day. My last guess: you talented members put your deepest, darkest thoughts onto paper then sit in a tight circle and read your poetic words aloud.

Lydia: And…you’re wrong again. I appreciate the effort though. We transmit manuals dude. It’s kind of an obvious concept.

Jake: …I don’t get it.

Lydia: Well here, let me read you our mission statement.

“Manual Transmission Club, formed with the intention of enhancing each individual’s random knowledge, is committed to the sharing of all types of manuals, including (but not limited to) how-to-guides, step-by-step instructions, social and religious regulations, health and lifestyle enhancing tips, installation processes, building guides, and a plethora of other focused manuals. By increasing awareness and intelligence of a variety of subjects, individuals become significantly more well-rounded and prepared for unexpected situations.”

Lydia (continued): Jake, I think you would be a great contributor to the group. Your knowledge of sailing and boating regulations would surely help each of us at some point in our lives. For example, when I’m abundantly wealthy with three yachts, I’ll benefit from knowing how to dock them and maintain their superior structures.

Jake: I was honestly buying this up until the part where you get rich. Then I noticed the falseness of your pleas. I’m sorry Lydia, but I’ve got to get going.

Lydia: Wait! Remember when your date Hannah left prom early last year, because she was “sick?” The only thing she was “sick” of was your absolutely ridiculous dance moves, Jake. I was embarrassed for her.

Jake: (blushing) What does that—

Lydia: (interrupting) What does that have to do with anything, you ask? There are manuals for that, Jake. You can get help. It’s not too late to fix this.

Jake: (mumbling with defeat) Where do I sign up?

Lydia sheds a victorious grin, reaching for her group list to add her newest recruit.