Of Skarl the Drummer by Lord Dunsany
In a realm governed by the deity Māna-Yood-Sushāī, Skarl the Drummer creates a drum and begins an eternal rhythm. This drumming lulls Māna into slumber, leading to a profound stillness among the gods of Pegāna. Skarl's relentless beat is essential; it sustains the existence of worlds and gods, as it is suggested that the cosmos may be mere echoes or dreams influenced by his drumming. Skarl's task is unending, transcending seasons and time, as he continues to play despite fatigue. His drumming is crucial for the gods to fulfill their purposes and maintain the fabric of reality. The narrative emphasizes the precarious balance of existence, hinging on Skarl's unwavering commitment. If he were to stop, the consequences would be catastrophic, awakening Māna and leading to the dissolution of creation. The story culminates in the inevitability of Skarl's eventual cessation of drumming. When that moment arrives, silence will envelop Pegāna, and Skarl will depart into the void, marking the end of his duty. His fate thereafter remains uncertain, whether he will serve another deity or face oblivion, but he will have completed his role. The work explores themes of duty, existence, and the interconnectedness of creation, highlighting the significance of Skarl's relentless rhythm in the cosmic order.
By Lord Dunsany · First published 1928 · Genre: Fantasy, Mythology, Philosophical Fiction · 379 words
First lines
When Māna-Yood-Sushāī had made the gods and Skarl, Skarl made a drum, and began to beat upon it that he might drum forever. Then because he was weary after the making of the gods, and because of the drumming of Skarl, did Māna-Yood-Sushāī grow drowsy and fall asleep.
What this Textopian page supports
Of Skarl the Drummer is listed on Textopian as a short story by Lord Dunsany, dated 1928 CE.
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- Work type: Short story
- Author: Lord Dunsany
- Date: 1928 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Philosophical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Speculative Fiction
- Length: 379 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative involves gods, creation, and a mythical setting, characteristic of the fantasy genre.
- Mythology — The story presents a mythological framework with divine beings and cosmic themes.
- Philosophical Fiction — The themes explore existence, purpose, and the nature of reality, prompting philosophical reflection.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style is rich and poetic, focusing on language and thematic depth.
Tags
Fantasy · Adventure · Mythology · Fiction · Short Story · Literary Fiction · Classic Literature · Symbolism · Allegory · Mystery · Supernatural · Magic Realism