avatarPaul Mansfield

Summary

A pregnant woman waits anxiously by a secluded bay for her lover, a hunter, to arrive so they can escape together, unaware of the lurking dangers in the jungle of Monaxiá.

Abstract

Set in the perilous beauty of Monaxiá, the narrative unfolds with a woman waiting by the shore for her lover, who is late to their rendezvous. The bay, known for its superstitions and isolation, is the only safe haven for their forbidden meeting. Despite her father's disapproval of her relationship with a hunter, the woman's love remains steadfast, and she is prepared to flee with him, her belongings packed. As the sun sets and the jungle stirs, the story hints at an ominous atmosphere, culminating in the revelation that Monaxiá is both enchanting and treacherous. The tale, titled "Alone, she rules," is a succinct exploration of this world's duality.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a sense of foreboding and suspense as the woman waits for her lover, emphasizing the tension between safety and danger in Monaxiá.
  • The story suggests a critique of societal norms and expectations through the woman's defiance of her father's wishes and her choice of partner.
  • The setting is portrayed as a character in itself, with the jungle's sounds and the bay's solitude contributing to the story's mood.
  • The author's choice to set the story in a little-known world implies a desire to explore themes of isolation and the unknown.
  • The mention of the author's other works indicates an invitation for readers to engage with more of his storytelling, suggesting a confidence in his narrative craft.

A STORY OF MONAXIÁ

By The Shore, She Waits

In the jungle, they wait

Frederic Edward Church — Tropical Scenery— Public Domain — Wikimedia Commons

By the shore, she waits for him, her lover and the father of her soon-to-be child.

It’s a beautiful day at the bay. No one ever comes here. They know the superstitions, but this is the only safe place to meet. Her father disapproves of him — a loner who’d rather hunt than farm. But she loves him, and he loves her. Her bag, with her only belongings, lies at her feet, waiting for him, so they can run off and be free.

Why is he so late? The sun has set.

She shivers.

The jungle rustles.

Footsteps.

Silence.

“Alone, she rules” is a 100-word story about the world of Monaxiá, a beautiful but dangerous place.

Paul Mansfield is a writer, a photographer, a guitar player, a philosopher — some he does well, some not so well, but he still tries them all.

You can follow him on Twitter @pmansfield

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