(Sunday Scribblings)
Why did I choose a dragon as my “special animal”?
I didn’t even think of acquiring such a thing until I was well into my euphemistically-called “golden” years. I appreciated the fact (as I’m sure did most of their friends and relatives) that gift-giving was simpler to those with such a special interest: Josie with her teddy bears, Daria’s pigs, Stan’s elephants, Jon’s zebras. One could give toys to the young, figurines, printed linens, emblazoned T-shirts to their elders, all themed to their animal choices. I wasn’t trying to make life simpler for others when I chose MY beast, but I obviously did, as my house overflowing with gifts of dragon memorabilia attests.
Still, why were dragons my choice? I looked through the archives of my poetry, and this sonnet, one that I wrote a long time ago, caught my eye:
OF MYTHIC BEASTS
I’ve never tried to trap a unicorn.It’s not more graceful, say, than a gazelle,
an earthly beast I’m sure would do as well;
and what’s so great about a single horn?
Nor have I tried to snare a horse with wings.
I’ve flown across the sky, but in a jet.
I see no earthly use for such a pet;
I’ll save my sugar cubes to sweeten things.
But dragons! Ah, now that’s a different story:
great flailing tails that slither, thrash, and crash,
tough armored scales to hide the wicked core,
the iridescent wings a blue-black glory,
the knobbly claws whose talons rake and slash!
My favored mythic beasts breathe fire, and roar!
Could it be that finding a special affinity to DRAGON (generic) might let me borrow its power? Let's see... If I were a dragon I could sail high among clouds or stars, confront villains (especially governmental figures) and intimidate them with my fearsome claws. Since I'm a pacifist, I wouldn't tear them to pieces; but they wouldn't know that, and might change their ways. If I were a dragon I could fly through fire without being scorched. I could rescue anyone trapped in a burning building. Just think what an asset I would be to our local fire department!
(these dragon drawings are by me)
14 comments:
Contact the local fire department. That's the best idea yet. How much could we save in taxes? Do Dragons need medical benifits? Such a fun imagination.
I love dragons. I find this a great post. I am going to re-read this!
Dear Dragon-Lady,
What a enjoyable read and I loved the face on the purple dragon. Only you would be a 'pacifist' dragon! Witty and profound, as usual.
Mary Ann
what an enjoyable post,,, and to know you created the art work... and extra added bonus... thank you ....
What a fab post. I love any kind of mythical beasts, especially dragons!
Beautiful, DragonLady, simply beautiful. Love the poem, the thoughts and your art work.
Dragons are very powerful, a wise choice of special animal!
Oh Granny, your dragon poem is delightful and so are your illustrations! Ahh yes, to have the intimidating powers of the mighty dragon - much more appealing than the milk-toast unicorn! I totally loved this post!
Hi Granny Smith,
This is my first time at your site, but I don't think it will be my last.
It's so peaceful here, dragons nothwithstanding.
It is true that the surest way to have an overflow is to inform others you collect it.
As one who has contributed to your collection, I have always admired your love of dragons. Now, I am always on the lookout for good children's book with dragons, as they remind me of you when I read them to Jon! In fact the book for your birthday was one that Jon had brought home from the school library & we fell in love with it. I went and found 2 copies. One for Jon & one for you!
Love you!
Josie
Ah, I love this post and the drawings! Magical, mystical and with power that I envy!
What a great post! This is my first time on your site, and I have to say that you are a really talented artist.
I enjoyed this post and the poem. It made we wish that elephants (besides Dumbo) could fly.
Great painting. My affinity has always been for zebras and lizards.
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