Isola

by Allegra Goodman

“I understand what it is to be a man.” “God forbid,” said Damienne. But I said, “To be a man is to have your way.” “And is that good?” she said. “And is it right?” “It is satisfying,” I told her.

I bowed my head because the world was stranger and more terrible than ever I’d imagined. The sea more mysterious—and I more blessed. How could I think otherwise? That I was blessed to witness such a thing. I did not deserve to see such beauty, and yet this wonder spread itself before me.

“Those who know their faults are truly wise,” the Queen said. “And those who have endured the worst have most to teach.