As a student,there was never much allure for me in the simple fact that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line.
So that even now, when I stop to smell the roses, I am aware not only of the scent of the bloom, or the slant of the sun rays along the thorned stem, the dew on the petals - but also the amending of the soil, the pruning back in expectation of other seasons, droughts, aphids, my Grandmother in long sleeves. And then also the later to-be recalled memories evoked by the dried arrangement suspended from the rafters of some future attic (whose location I do not yet know).
"The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins", ca. 1803–5
William Blake (British, 1757–1827)
Perhaps that is pecisely why mythology has so much appeal for me..........a format offering more questions in the colorful details than answers. The parables of the New Testament hold the same paradoxical appeal - even as they were most often taught to me as closed-ended morality lessons.
"Fractal Fireflies #7" © 2009
From The "Spidey-Hole Series, Fractal Fireflies Subset"
The story of the "Wise and Foolish Maidens" told to me from Matthew 25: 1-13 (read here) was taught as a cautionary tale. Warning me to be ever vigilant and mindful of being prepared, the lesson echoed the dire warnings of Civil Defense drills and news reels. The Wise Maidens held their potential in check - waiting, ever waiting for the Groom to arrive. I believed that I too, was expected to tend my lamps and 'trim my wicks', but leave them unlit.
"Waiting for Prince Street"© 2009
The Foolish Maidens (on the other hand), appear frivolous in their lack of planning - either burning up their reserves (according to some versions) or not bringing fuel at all (according to others). Through their lack of foresight they literally leave themselves in the dark. But this in itself is not what makes these poor Maidens Foolish.
"Vicarious Celebration (5)" © 2009
No, these Maidens - upon their return from the Home Depot, with vats of replenished oil - had the unmitigated gall to expect entry through the locked gates to the wedding celebration! And it was this audacity that made them Foolish in the eyes of the other celebrants.
A common interpretation of this parable is that the Foolish Maidens (like the rest of us Foolish Humans) can not, nor should not, expect to have their important work done by others.
This is a valuable lesson to implement as we attempt to navigate the darkened passages of time and social order.
"Fractal Fireflies #8" © 2009
From The "Spidey-Hole Series, Fractal Fireflies Subset"
But I suspect that many of us have burned our lanterns with some abandon:
and oh, such glorious light!
If denied entrance as guests at the gate, let us not despair. Instead let us grab each other by the hands - a community of Wizened Foolish Maidens. And dance until the dawning - illuminated but by the fractured light of
countless fireflies.
Posts
