The narrative unfolds in a fantastical realm where the protagonist observes a distant city from a cliff's edge in a desert. As twilight descends, a group of about twenty men, identified as poets and artists, stealthily exits the city, expressing relief that they have left. Their departure is met with joy by those remaining, who are engaged in commerce, indicating a stark contrast between the creative souls and the mundane populace. The protagonist inquires about the reason for the poets' exit and the people's relief. A guiding voice suggests that a foreboding doom is approaching the city, prompting the artists to flee while the citizens remain oblivious to the impending danger. The atmosphere grows tense, and the protagonist decides to leave as well, sensing the ominous change in the sky. A millennium later, the protagonist revisits the site, only to find the city has vanished, leaving no trace behind, not even among the weeds. This stark transformation emphasizes themes of impermanence, the fleeting nature of civilization, and the contrast between artistic sensitivity and commercial indifference. The work explores the idea that creativity and foresight can lead to escape from inevitable doom, while the unseeing masses remain trapped in their pursuits, ultimately leading to their downfall. The absence of the city serves as a poignant reminder of the transitory nature of human endeavors and the lasting impact of art and imagination.
By Lord Dunsany · First published 1910 · Genre: Fantasy, Philosophical, Literary Fiction