In this series, I will take the Word of the Day from Dictionary.com and craft a short piece of creative writing around it. My goal is to embrace the meaning of the word in some unique way, all the while trying out different styles, rhythms and characterizations. It is as much an exercise in creativity as it is an exploration of grammar. Enjoy!
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By Alex Seise
“Polaris, what have you done!” The king of the gods bellowed in his lofty chamber high above the land, gazing upon the ghastly scene in front of the throne. “My son Cirrus bleeds!”
The skies pooled red with the blood of the great god’s child, casting a crimson air over all the lands he ruled. Before long, Cirrus was dead in his father’s arms.
Polaris stood waiting, preparing to face his fate. “For centuries, I have helped sailors navigate the seas, and caravans the desert. And for centuries, Cirrus has blocked the way and caused malice to those who journeyed out. What I did, I did for all who sojourn around our world.”
The king looked up, a single tear on his cheek. “And guide the wanderers you shall continue to do, from now until the dawn of the final tomorrow.” The king raised his scepter. “But not from my kingdom, or any other kingdom. You shall do so from the cold blackness of the stars.”
The old man closed the book, and pointed up to the dark sky. “And that, my little Louisa, is how the north star, Polaris, got all the way up there.”
