Moth to a Flame

J. R. R. Tolkien once wrote that “Not all who wander are lost.” The sentiment, although often mistaken as some kind of romanticization of the act of wandering, is appropriate here. This is a collection about what it means to wander with conviction, from conviction. It is not a tale designed to be Romantic or epic in scale and style, although it may play with forms which are traditionally associated with both. Moths, the central motif of this work, wander with conviction towards the all-consuming flame—towards the very thing that can destroy them. Although this act may seem foolish from the outside, the moth moves willingly towards its selected doom, endeared by the little light which shines in a great darkness. To wander with conviction, knowing that it may cause great pain in the end, is a unique position. For most, the act of wandering is meant either to be aimless or towards a specific end. The moth, however, wanders with purpose towards any flame. Its goal is not specific to place, only to purpose: a baptism by fire.

This is not a journey for the faint of heart, nor is it meant to be enjoyed as pure entertainment. I am no wise man, for I cannot answer γνῶθι σεαυτόν with “I do.” Whatever oracle, either within me or in some other place, is not found in this work. Passion is no oracle, although she may be the woman who completes the trinity with Life and Wisdom. Passion is not only a purpose; she is also a flame which tempts wanderers to her side, burning them in the fires of fervor.