Random Act of Monster: Gorgon (for D)

Random Act of Monster is a series of personalised micro-stories written for my Patreon supporters at the $12 level, based on the fabulous mythical creature of their choice. This story is for D Franklin. Thank you so much, D, for your ongoing support!

I have always carved Gorgons.

When I was young in the ancient world, it was a skill greatly prized. A Gorgon head with hissing snakes for hair and protuding tongue might ward away all manner of evils. I carved in soapstone, in wax, in soft clay to be baked in my mother’s ovens.

Sometimes, (rarely) I was given marble in which to work my art. In its white whorls I carved such beauty as has never been seen in the world again.

No one needs Gorgons in the 21st century. They serve no function.

Still, I carve. My statues decorate gardens, and cornices of buildings. They are cast in pewter and other alloys to make cheap jewellery.

I survive and remember. I carve.

* * * * *

Last night, I saw a Gorgon on the train. A fleeting glimpse of strong muscle and hissing serpent hair. I watched, open-mouthed as the train flashed past me, taking the dread creature on without stopping, and for one instant I did not feel alone.

Today, I was ready for them. I met the train a station earlier and walked the length of it, my whittling tools clanking awkwardly in my pocket.

The Gorgon sat in a compartment on their own — others had fled no doubt at the sign of that fearsome, grinning mouth, and the snakes that writhed and sang from their scalp.

Our eyes met, and they knew me. Gorgon and snakes alike recognised exactly who I was. “Carver,” they hissed in unison.

“D,” I replied, for the name was mine now, and hard-won.

“Carver,” the Gorgon said again. “Carve me.”