The old prophet’s followers have begun to ignore him, although they wheel him out for public display on ceremonial occasions. He listens to their orations. His teachings, those long-ago words, have become commonplaces of folk wisdom, but simplified, distorted. Followers have added to what he said, deleted, changed. When he tries to correct them, he is hushed. “Perhaps they are right,” he says. “After all, what do I know?” … [Read more...]
“The Prophet – III” / Memorable Fancies #593
28 January, 2014 by Leave a Comment
I am revered; every word is cherished, illuminated, decorated with gold and set in stone. The people say that my teaching has come directly from the spewing mouth of God. I do not remember this, but I suppose it is so. I am disappointed that the words they honor are God’s, not my own. Surely I have something to say. Don’t I? <END> If you liked this post, please tell your friends and share a comment here or in StumbleUpon, Reddit, Facebook, or other social websites. … [Read more...]
“The Prophet – I” / A Memorable Fancy #102
27 January, 2013 by 3 Comments
The prophet tries to recall the source of his inspiration so many years ago. He mumbles the same old words when the Movement asks him to. But now, the words don’t seem so urgent. What does his teaching really mean? He doesn’t remember. His followers treat him as a beautiful relic whose wisdom is often quoted and ignored. He is local color, a living treasure, a brief stop for tour buses. Tourists take his picture. The Movement provides a pleasant room where his every word is monitored, at … [Read more...]
Memorable Fancies 