House on the Moor #1
by Gay Pogue
Fiber with beads, paper, acrylic paint
20 x 18.5 inches
In an unfortunate sentimental moment, the Angel Snake Jason had promised his dying grandmother to visit his cousins at least twice a year and take them a gift. The cousins were a morose, stingy lot who lived in some ancient warrens east of his snug cottage on the moor. This time, he proudly bore a single earring he found a fortnight ago near the lane. He was sure they had nothing so fine in all their tunnels.
When Jason arrived at their dwelling, his smile and gift were met with stony stares. They just turned and entered their dark maze. He followed and remained in their public room the requisite hours. Lunch was but a few blades of withered grass and several drops of brackish water. Long pauses punctuated the dull attempts at conversation. Perhaps he should have brought food or wine instead.
As they emerged from the gloom for the customary postprandial bask on the rock above their home, they saw dark clouds to the west. Jason snatched the opportunity to bid a hasty farewell. As he flew, the whole sky turned dark purple and furiously pelted him with rain, sleet, hail, and lightening. Fearing for his life, he pushed himself to the very limits of his physical abilities.
The aroma of his favorite stew steaming on the fire met him as he finally scooted under the eves of his cottage. All was well.
#5 in the “Angel Snake Houses” series
Completed August 2011
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