On a Winter’s Night?

Where do I see you in a novel? What kind of character will you be? Is it a mythology, a children’s adventure, a tale for all ages? Is your hair short or long? Light or dark? Are you tall for your age and do you have a defiant look in the face of challenges? Are you the hero of the story or are you by the hero’s side? Am I there with you? Do I understand the things you see, the challenges you face? Do I share your doubts, your triumphs? Maybe, I’m just in the background, the introduction; the other that doesn’t understand, the parent, the structure you can return to when your adventures are complete. Maybe your mum is there with me, two black and white characters that represent society, all good, all safe.

I’d like to take you on some adventures; I’d like to be there alongside you, battling evil, saving something. I’d like to defend you and fight off everything that is bad. I could help read maps, I could row across the rivers or chase away the dogs with a stick and a loud voice and an unshaven scowl. Maybe I’d have a long beard and long hair, I could be wise and give you guidance; I could give you that look that means everything will be okay.

It’s getting close now, the first adventure together. I have a sense, a vision, I feel it coming soon. Prepare yourself, be confident. You will be okay, you have trained well, and I know you will make it through no matter what. I’ll be there waiting, with your mother, getting ready to provide that structure, that safety.