I struggled first attempt to get through this. Second read was easier, as I just allowed the story to unfold instead of trying to figure it out. Then the sadness of conformity as a “way out”. Then a memory of going to the town circus and being horrified at all the animals dressed as humans being forced to jump through hoops. Never went to another circus again!
YES. That's exactly what stuck out to me too. Especially here:
Had I been a follower of the grand freedom I mentioned earlier, I'm sure I would have chosen the sea over the way out I saw in the gloomy faces of these people.
We all make compromises to fit in. This highlights how tragic that can feel.
Wow. I had to immediately re-read this after the first pass to really absorb it. Incredibly sad but also one of the most interesting things I've read in a while. Not going to forget this one any time soon.
I struggled first attempt to get through this. Second read was easier, as I just allowed the story to unfold instead of trying to figure it out. Then the sadness of conformity as a “way out”. Then a memory of going to the town circus and being horrified at all the animals dressed as humans being forced to jump through hoops. Never went to another circus again!
YES. That's exactly what stuck out to me too. Especially here:
We all make compromises to fit in. This highlights how tragic that can feel.
Wow. I had to immediately re-read this after the first pass to really absorb it. Incredibly sad but also one of the most interesting things I've read in a while. Not going to forget this one any time soon.
Yep - excellent!!