The Eye in the Waste by Lord Dunsany
In a distant land beyond the city of Bodraháhn, seven deserts stretch out, each with its own characteristics and mysteries. The first desert shows signs of travelers, some returning, while the second reveals only those who venture outward, never to return. The third remains untouched by human feet, while the fourth, fifth, and sixth are defined by sand, dust, and stones, respectively. The final desert, known as the Desert of Deserts, houses a monumental statue hewn from the living hill named Rānorāda, known as the eye in the waste. This statue, carved by divine hands, bears an inscription dedicated to a god who possesses profound knowledge. The tale suggests that no man has ventured to this desolate place, as it is devoid of water and life. The locals recount that the gods themselves crafted Rānorāda, particularly in the likeness of Hoodrazai, a god who has uncovered the secrets of creation and the essence of the divine. Hoodrazai, once a deity of joy, became sorrowful upon gaining knowledge, reflecting a profound solitude and silence. In Bodraháhn, the camel drivers share these stories, contrasting the wisdom of Hoodrazai with their own desire for merriment. They choose to indulge in wine and revelry, dismissing the weight of wisdom in favor of fleeting joy. The narrative explores themes of knowledge, isolation, and the human tendency to seek distraction from deeper truths. The camel drivers' tales, while rich in myth and meaning, are met with skepticism, highlighting the divide between the profound and the mundane. The story ultimately invites reflection on the nature of wisdom and the choices individuals make in the face of existential truths.
By Lord Dunsany · First published 1921 · Genre: Fantasy, Mythology, Philosophical Fiction · 523 words
First lines
There lie seven deserts beyond Bodraháhn, which is the city of the caravans' end. None goeth beyond. In the first desert lie the tracks of mighty travellers outward from Bodraháhn, and some returning. And in the second lie only outward tracks, and none return.
The third is a desert untrodden by the feet of men.
What this Textopian page supports
The Eye in the Waste is listed on Textopian as a short story by Lord Dunsany, dated 1921 CE.
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- Work type: Short story
- Author: Lord Dunsany
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Philosophical Fiction, Adventure, Literary Fiction
- Length: 523 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative features mythical elements, gods, and a fantastical setting beyond the known world.
- Mythology — The story incorporates themes of gods, creation, and ancient lore, resembling mythological tales.
- Philosophical Fiction — The text explores themes of knowledge, wisdom, and the nature of existence through the character of Hoodrazai.
- Adventure — The journey through the deserts and the exploration of the unknown elements suggest an adventurous quest.
Tags
Fantasy · Adventure · Mythology · Magic · Realism · Symbolism · Psychological Insight · Philosophy · Mystery · Supernatural · Paranormal · Dreamlike