Snake the Gypsy (Introduction)

Please don’t ask for my name because I simply will not tell you. It is too much of a painful matter. I can see that you are foreign and therefore can not possibly understand the complexities of the name my nation has given me, but my past is a very sad story, and if you will humor an old gypsy woman and her boy for awhile, then I would take great pleasure in telling you my life history. You see, gypsies inherit the talent of storytelling, adding color and sparkle to their own stories, and no matter how implausible their stories may seem, a gypsy can make it completely believable by the feeling she expresses. Why, I have alternated my story numerous times, changing it to satisfy the wish of my listeners who have never been so heartless as to walk away without dropping a piece into my collection can. I touch them, you see? We gypsies are known for telling captivating tales, and it is a gypsy’s secret to know what kind of stories will delight our listeners. We can see into the windows of your soul and grasp from them your passions as well as your fears. Ah, yes, fear. Here is an ancient secret every gypsy learns from childhood: Fear is the most vital ingredient in any tale. We know that you Hûvelles will concentrate wholly on the horrifying parts, remembering that image for days, weeks, years, or possibly your whole life. You aren't thinking of running from me now, are you? I have not yet told my tale, and you do not yet know what my story will contain. Perhaps it will be sadness, or maybe love? Love may posses your every thought, but it does not threaten you, haunt you, or provoke surreal nightmares that scar you. Love is powerful, yes, but fear is the seed of hysteria. Don’t ever forget that.


© Mikal Minarich


*The story continues! Check it out under Pages in the right panel! I update it often. :)