We interrupt this contest . . .

. . . to close the submissions. Well done, everybody. We’ve enjoyed each entry. Here’s what happens next:

Five judges, whose opinions will be weighted equally, will choose a winner and an as-yet-unknown number of finalists. Winners and finalists will be announced simultaneously. The number of entries has exceeded our expectations; the judging will likely take several days.

Meanwhile, this is the part of the show, after the final curtain has fallen, when volunteers wielding empty coffee cans man the exits and ask for donations. All Lascaux expenses, including prize money, come from donations, or out of our own pockets. Please help defray these expenses and insure the availability of future prize money by clicking on the Donate button and giving what you can. Anything you can.

On behalf of all writers, for whom payment in this industry has become a luxury, you have our heartfelt gratitude.