Dell's Journey

Chapter 21: Monsters Song And The Debate It Sparked

Before he knew it Dell was drifting off to sleep,

propped up against the craggy wall. The empty cocoa-mug

hung loosely in his hands. His head grew heavier and

sleepier and he closed his eyes, promising to open them

again in just a moment.

He stretched out his arms, maneuvering into a more

comfortable position. Long, low, mellow tones resounded in

the hall. Suddenly he breathed deep and snorted, waking

out of slumber. The mug in his hands tipped, fell, and

gave up the ghost upon the floor with a clatter.

"Don't mind the cup," the mild voice of the monster

reassured. "You've been asleep, but now wake up for a

minute and have a listen to my song. I've been working out

some parts here, now..." His voice trailed off and the music

resumed. It was a strange song, spooky, and almost

frightening in a way. But at the same time, it gave Dell

the distinct impression that a joke was being played on

him. It was like seeing the shadow of a ware-wolf coming

toward you, but finding out it is a shadow-puppet, and that

a little bunny is making it. There was a touch of irony

and a touch of absurdity in the tune. It was oddly

provocative.

"It feels a bit gloomy, doesn't it Monster?" said

Dell.

"Uh, I guess it does," replied the monster, the melody

coming to a halt. "Is that so bad?"

"Well, no. I just don't see why every song of yours

has to be dark and introspective. It's depressing!"

"Well of course it feels gloomy! Why shouldn't it?

That's exactly what it's about, you see: a young chap

peeking an eye cautiously 'round a corner, only to see

terrors and trolls, goblins, cruelties and failures

everywhere, and shaken spears! The poor fellow clutches

his head in his hands. He shakes with fright, then anger,

then rage, and then impotent hopelessness. But he never

thinks to peer all the way 'round the corner. Because if

he had, he would have seen something with the other eye,

something just beyond the reach of the first eye! Look!

Dancing animals, his mommy and daddy, an angel with

feathery wings, a fairy with a glittering pink dress, and

strings of white lights and lanterns covered in colored

paper brightening up the scene of a wonderful party! The

cake and truffles are being served. Some silly, fat,