The Carnival

     Timothy sets forth. The sun is bright, and the crisp clean air feels good as the breeze blows through his hair. Walking down the path leading from his house, he glances down at today’s newspaper, damp from the morning's rain. Looking back up, printed words swimming in his head, he turns and walks down the street seeking his destination.

Vibrant, flashing lights, glowing playfully against the evening sky, come into view. Timothy approaches cautiously, taking care not to get crushed by the crowd. Creatures of the imagination, covered in elegant curves and spikes, dance in a circle as loud hypnotic verses play.  Happy faces around him laugh and scream in excitement.  A skinny giant in a top hat and stripes strides through the lively swarm of existence surrounding him. He watches as round red objects are thrown, chaos erupts, and the victor is rewarded. A smile and another gift is given.

A colorful castle of cloth and chairs waves in the breeze. Timothy silently steps inside. Ropes sway, tossing sequins back and forth. Large amounts of paint and a huge red nose run around drunk on life, as ridiculous costumes wander aimlessly in joyous confusion. Losing

interest, he creeps back outside to join the crowd. Souls, refusing to be tied down, float up in rebellion and disappear into the untouched abyss. The smell of sugar and grease is intoxicating. Pink cotton passes by and is slowly devoured. Birds hover overhead, scanning, searching for something to fill the void.

Timothy turns and walks towards a colorful barrier surrounding an array of fur and feathers. He smiles as he witnesses children beg their parents for money, eagerly run to purchase edible treats, and attempt to feed the fat and fluffy critters trapped within the enclosure. "Hit the bell and win a prize!" He turns. Neon plush stares through cold plastic. A man sits and flashes Timothy a grin, then holds out his hand, offering. Timothy approaches slowly. Hesitating, he accepts the temptation.

A swing is made. In the distance he hears the sound of bells and whistles, as he takes in a mouthful of the delicious salted twist gripped tightly in his hand. Blooming flowers of fire erupt in the sky sending sparks dancing through the air. Deafened ears surround cheers as more bright

lights decorate the night, painting a picture with every burst of color. The show continues, leaving the enthusiastic crowd in speechless wonder as the last few lights fall from the sky and disappear into the deep darkness.

His senses satiated, Timothy turns homeward, as lights and sounds ricochet through his consciousness. He knows that sleep will not come easily, and the morning will arrive too early, but there are no regrets. The carnival comes but once a year.

By Katie

Maclay School, 11^th grade