This piece is inspired by ’s recent story, Walpurgisnacht. Her story moved me to tears, and spoke to me in a way that only true art can.
So, I asked for her permission to tell my own tale in that magical circus.
Here’s what I came up with…
This dead world that has forgotten me. Ghosts as far as the eye could see. Everything crumbling into ash. Empty bottles litter my stash.
No longer numb, I feel the pain. I’ve lost everything, nothing to gain. So, when that pink moon filled the sky, I saw my chance to sprout wings and fly.
Welcome to Walpurgisnacht, Zephyr cried. With a wave, the king of faeries welcomed me inside. Skeletons danced as music filled the space around Dragons soared above, never touching the ground.
Step right up! He said with a wink. I was enraptured, almost scared to blink. Worried it would all disappear if looked away, I fell to my knees, begging him to let me stay.
Zephyr looked to me with kind and carrying eyes. He saw the fractured soul hiding beneath my disguise. For a time, he was more silent than a performing mime. Then he opened his mouth, telling me it’s not my time.
I shook my head. Tears cascaded down my face. Please don’t send me back, I can no longer run that race. I told him that I was hollow, that my soul ached for this. He in turn asked me about those who I would miss.
I told him that world had taken everything from me. In that place I felt blind, but here I could finally see. I wanted to stay there, in a place where I belong. Zephyr smiled before telling me I was wrong.
He told me that I had work left to do there. Even if I can’t see it, there are those who still care. My life was a pebble, casting ripples through space. My presence made that world a better place.
Still, I argued. I didn’t care about any others. I was betrayed by those who I once called brothers. My suffering was unending, I just wanted it to end. That’s when Zephyr offered me a new way to attend.
He spoke as he reached up and plucked a dragon’s scale. When your time is done, bring this back and tell your tale. When your purpose is fulfilled, Walpurgisnacht awaits. Shining at the end of your time like heaven’s pearly gates.
I took the scale and returned home reluctantly. Zephyr’s final words echoed in my mind consistently. The death of the past is simply an opportunity for rebirth. We all have a purpose for which we were placed on this Earth.
Thanks for Reading! Here’s Your Musical Pairing
Listen to this after reading, like pairing a glass of wine with dinner.
He saw the fractured soul hiding beneath my disguise....the power in those words. Stunning. This entire lyrical read is beautiful. I wanted more time here & you & Mina wove an enchanting world. What a beautiful way to find purpose.... 😍 💕
Really beautiful, and the idea of escape while acknowledging our broader purpose definitely resonates. Love that.