| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from Herodias by Gustave Flaubert: him, thou shalt be punished!"
"But it is he that persecutes me!" exclaimed Antipas. "He asked me to
do a thing that was impossible. Since then he has done nothing but
revile me. And I was not severe with him when he began his abuse of
me. But he had the hardihood to send various men from Machaerus to
spread dissension and discontent throughout my domain. A curse upon
him! Since he attacks me, I shall defend myself."
"Without doubt, he has expressed his anger with too much violence,"
Phanuel replied calmly. "But do not heed that further. He must be set
free."
"One does not let loose a furious animal," said the tetrarch.
Herodias |
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from Oedipus Trilogy by Sophocles: OEDIPUS
How so, old man? For heaven's sake tell me all.
MESSENGER
If this is why thou dreadest to return.
OEDIPUS
Yea, lest the god's word be fulfilled in me.
MESSENGER
Lest through thy parents thou shouldst be accursed?
OEDIPUS
This and none other is my constant dread.
MESSENGER
Oedipus Trilogy |
| The third excerpt represents the element of Water. It speaks of pure spiritual influences and feelings of love, and is drawn from Persuasion by Jane Austen: "I kept my letter open, that I might send you word how Louisa
bore her journey, and now I am extremely glad I did, having a great deal
to add. In the first place, I had a note from Mrs Croft yesterday,
offering to convey anything to you; a very kind, friendly note indeed,
addressed to me, just as it ought; I shall therefore be able to
make my letter as long as I like. The Admiral does not seem very ill,
and I sincerely hope Bath will do him all the good he wants.
I shall be truly glad to have them back again. Our neighbourhood
cannot spare such a pleasant family. But now for Louisa.
I have something to communicate that will astonish you not a little.
She and the Harvilles came on Tuesday very safely, and in the evening
Persuasion |
The fourth excerpt represents the element of Earth. It speaks of physical influences and the impact of the unseen on the visible world, and is drawn from The Koran: When thou art amongst them, and standest up to pray with them,
then let a, party of them stand up with thee, and let them take
their arms; and when they adore, let them go behind you, and let
another party who have not yet prayed come forward and pray with thee;
and let them take their precautions and their arms.
Fain would those who misbelieve that ye were careless of your arms
and your baggage, that they might turn upon you with a single turning.
And it is no crime to you if ye be annoyed with rain or be sick,
that ye lay down your arms; but take your precautions,- verily, God
has prepared for those who misbelieve a shameful woe.
But when ye have fulfilled your prayer, remember God standing and
The Koran |
