3 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 211 She Must Face Punishment
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The priests and Ekaterina are discussing Aksinya and Natalya in the kitchen of the rectory. They have no idea that Aksinya is listening in the darkness by the door…
Ekaterina’s voice was soft, “Hush Makaruska, have you thought, that perhaps we are the only ones who might care for her. She is not like most people. She is a little strange, but she has no place else to go and no one else to turn to.”
“I don’t like having her here. I have a bad feeling about everything connected to her. Her preoccupation with the idea of a demon or with sorcery is just laughable. I think she should be under lock and key in an insane asylum, but Father Dobrushin won’t let me report her.”
Ekaterina’s voice was hard, “I would stop you too.”
“She claimed to kill her lady-in-waiting. Doesn’t that mean something to you? What if she tries to kill someone else?”
“We have yet to determine if what she said was true. We can’t find any evidence that the Lady Natalya was hurt much less killed.”
“If what the Countess said is true, she is a murderer. If what she said is not true, she is insane, but you two still want to keep her in an Ecclesia. If she really is a sorceress and called a demon, she is the most dangerous person to have within these walls.”
Ekaterina’s voice rose, “But she confessed. She has been a great help to me.”
“She confessed to murder. She may be forgiven by God, but she has yet to face the true punishment for her crimes.”
Father Dobrushin opened his hands, “Everything you say Makar is true. I just know there is more to her and this whole thing than we know. She is forgiven, but we will not allow her to escape the just punishment for her crimes. Even she should understand this.”
“She doesn’t know this Dobrushin—she is insane.”
“I hear you, brother. Let’s sleep on it. She hasn’t caused us harm. We can keep her here a little longer. Check with the police again tomorrow.”
Father Makar mumbled.
“I, for one, need to get to bed.”
Ekaterina was dismayed, “What about me. You had me send my helper away, and now I have the entire kitchen to clean. Father Makar and Father Dobrushin stood. Both their voices came at almost the same time, “I’ll help.”
Aksinya crept down the short corridor to her room. She didn’t relight the taper. She didn’t read her book. She lay on her cot under the woolen blanket and thought about everything she heard. Finally, she made up her mind and fell into a fitful sleep.
Now it comes. I give you the last paragraph from yesterday. Aksinya has no one else to turn to. We will shortly find out...well, we shall find out.
Then Father Makar begins his argument. He speaks his mind because he doesn't know Aksinya is listening. He thinks she is insane--indeed, in the minds of any reasonable person, Aksinya is insane. Father Dobrushin doesn't have any power in the Ecclesia, but Father Makar is compassionate--he has not turned Aksinya in to the authorities because Dobrushin has asked him not to. Ekaterina has her say as well.
Father Makar continues his argument. Aksinya claimed to have murdered--what if she tries to kill again? His argument is well made: if what Aksinya said was true, she is a murderer; if what she said was not true, she is insane. If Aksinya is really a sorceress and called a demon, she is very dangerous. Ekaterina's response is weak--we can hear how weak (I don't need to elaborate). Then, the clincher from Father Makar--Aksinya may be forgiven by God, but she still has to face the punishment for her crimes. This is absolute truth. Forgiveness doesn't equal pardon--each person must face the judicial punishment for their actions. Father Dobrushin agrees--this is truth.
Father Makar then makes his ultimate point--Aksinya is insane, she can't know that she must also face punishment. Do you see the other side of this? If Aksinya is sane, she would seek the just punishment for her sin. This is Socrates' answer too. A man who is sane and realizes his transgression of the law, will seek the just punishment for breaking the law. This was how Socrates justified dying himself.
Father Dobrushin suggests they take their time and wait and see what happens. Remember also, he told Aksinya to stay in the Ecclesia to protect her. Then I give you a little levity. Ekaterina sent away her helper and the kitchen still needs to be cleaned.
The end is a kicker. Aksinya heard everything. She thinks about what was said. You can guess her thoughts. She can prove her sanity by seeking just punishment. She is a danger to the Ecclesia. She doesn't wish to be a burden. She is not wanted and even Father Dobrushin agreed with Father Makar. What other decision could she make? This is the end of chapter 16. Tomorrow, scene and chapter setting for chapter 17.
Showing posts with label supper. Show all posts
Showing posts with label supper. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
A New Novel, Part 209 She is Certainly Insane
1 May 2011, A New Novel, Part 209 She is Certainly Insane
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
What follows is the full transition I promised you. I first set a day for Aksinya. Then I gave you a number of days (all similar). Now, I place the whole before you and this allows us to move to the next scene…
A couple of weeks passed as though they were days. The season of the church was now lent. They all fasted, although Aksinya wasn’t certain they could actually fast more than they did. The food in the rectory of the Ecclesia was filling, but it was nothing like what Aksinya had been used to. At lent, there was less meat, but she ate plenty of potatoes and almost all the tea she wished.
Father Makar came home in a strange mood Saturday evening only two weeks from Easter. Although Aksinya didn’t notice, he wouldn’t look at her at all. His eyes kept shifting toward her all through supper. When Aksinya was finished eating, Ekaterina pushed her toward the door to her room. She placed a taper in Aksinya’s hands, “Here, you might want to read tonight. I’ll take care of the kitchen.”
Aksinya was so happy to get back to her Bible, she didn’t think much, but took the taper in her hand. She stammered, “Th…thank you, Matushka.”
Aksinya headed down the corridor to her room until she heard the Lady Natalya’s name mentioned. Aksinya had asked, like clockwork, but Father Makar hadn’t been able to tell her anything. Aksinya quietly moved back down the hall and snuffed her taper. The door to the kitchen was open. The three sat at that table. Ekaterina wasn’t working on the dishes at all.
Father Makar was speaking, “The abbot won’t reveal anything about the Lady Natalya to me.”
“Does he know the Countess is here?”
“They have no idea.”
“They are looking for her?”
“That isn’t clear either. The Reverend Mother doesn’t know anything.”
Father Dobrushin breathed out, “It’s been almost three weeks. You’d think we would hear something, anything.”
“They may have concluded she is insane too.”
“I’ve watched her all this time. She is odd, but she is certainly not insane.”
Ekaterina added, “I agree. The Countess is anything but insane.”
“She believes she contracted with a demon. She is certainly insane.”
Father Dobrushin continued, “Whether she is insane or not, is not the main question to my mind. What I want to know is does the Cardinal seek her, and what happened to the Lady Natalya?”
The beginning is the transition. I use two methods to mark the when. The "when" is critical when moving time like this. The markers I use are first, two weeks, then the season is now lent. The use of church seasons is one of my favorite tie markers in these types of period novels. The time fits and it also gives other markers that provide information and period feel. Note, that they all fast, but Aksinya isn't certain how they could fast any more than they do. Here, I let you into the mind of the main character for just a moment. This is another way to contrast Aksinya's past luxuria with her new found poverty. She gets as much tea as she wishes, but it isn't the tea she likes best.
Now, another time marker and the actual scene. The day is Saturday and the evening. The time is two weeks from Easter. Father Makar will not look at Aksinya. He obviously knows something, but Aksinya is preoccupied with other thoughts and doesn't notice. Ekaterina notices. She gets rid of Aksinya as soon as supper is over. She places a taper in Aksinya's hands--this will tempt Aksinya to go read, ha ha. This is a temptation to Aksinya, but one that is reasonable.
They tried to get rid of Aksinya so they could speak about her, but Aksinya heard Natalya's name spoken, and she decides to listen. Now we discover Father Makar's connections in the city. We also discover that Father Makar has been seeking information about Natalya. He has also been keeping Aksinya secret. About Aksinya, Father Makar's opinion is direct--he still thinks she is insane. Father Dobrushin and Ekaterina come to Aksinya's defense. The ultimate problem with Aksinya is exactly what Father Makar thinks is what the rest of the world with think.
Father Dobrushin caps this piece with his question: “Whether she is insane or not, is not the main question to my mind. What I want to know is does the Cardinal seek her, and what happened to the Lady Natalya?” You should realize that all this is a set up. I have given you all kinds of foreshadowing and hints. These bind the scenes together and provide the background for what will happen next. Tomorrow, more of this important conversation (don't forget, Aksinya is listening).
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
What follows is the full transition I promised you. I first set a day for Aksinya. Then I gave you a number of days (all similar). Now, I place the whole before you and this allows us to move to the next scene…
A couple of weeks passed as though they were days. The season of the church was now lent. They all fasted, although Aksinya wasn’t certain they could actually fast more than they did. The food in the rectory of the Ecclesia was filling, but it was nothing like what Aksinya had been used to. At lent, there was less meat, but she ate plenty of potatoes and almost all the tea she wished.
Father Makar came home in a strange mood Saturday evening only two weeks from Easter. Although Aksinya didn’t notice, he wouldn’t look at her at all. His eyes kept shifting toward her all through supper. When Aksinya was finished eating, Ekaterina pushed her toward the door to her room. She placed a taper in Aksinya’s hands, “Here, you might want to read tonight. I’ll take care of the kitchen.”
Aksinya was so happy to get back to her Bible, she didn’t think much, but took the taper in her hand. She stammered, “Th…thank you, Matushka.”
Aksinya headed down the corridor to her room until she heard the Lady Natalya’s name mentioned. Aksinya had asked, like clockwork, but Father Makar hadn’t been able to tell her anything. Aksinya quietly moved back down the hall and snuffed her taper. The door to the kitchen was open. The three sat at that table. Ekaterina wasn’t working on the dishes at all.
Father Makar was speaking, “The abbot won’t reveal anything about the Lady Natalya to me.”
“Does he know the Countess is here?”
“They have no idea.”
“They are looking for her?”
“That isn’t clear either. The Reverend Mother doesn’t know anything.”
Father Dobrushin breathed out, “It’s been almost three weeks. You’d think we would hear something, anything.”
“They may have concluded she is insane too.”
“I’ve watched her all this time. She is odd, but she is certainly not insane.”
Ekaterina added, “I agree. The Countess is anything but insane.”
“She believes she contracted with a demon. She is certainly insane.”
Father Dobrushin continued, “Whether she is insane or not, is not the main question to my mind. What I want to know is does the Cardinal seek her, and what happened to the Lady Natalya?”
The beginning is the transition. I use two methods to mark the when. The "when" is critical when moving time like this. The markers I use are first, two weeks, then the season is now lent. The use of church seasons is one of my favorite tie markers in these types of period novels. The time fits and it also gives other markers that provide information and period feel. Note, that they all fast, but Aksinya isn't certain how they could fast any more than they do. Here, I let you into the mind of the main character for just a moment. This is another way to contrast Aksinya's past luxuria with her new found poverty. She gets as much tea as she wishes, but it isn't the tea she likes best.
Now, another time marker and the actual scene. The day is Saturday and the evening. The time is two weeks from Easter. Father Makar will not look at Aksinya. He obviously knows something, but Aksinya is preoccupied with other thoughts and doesn't notice. Ekaterina notices. She gets rid of Aksinya as soon as supper is over. She places a taper in Aksinya's hands--this will tempt Aksinya to go read, ha ha. This is a temptation to Aksinya, but one that is reasonable.
They tried to get rid of Aksinya so they could speak about her, but Aksinya heard Natalya's name spoken, and she decides to listen. Now we discover Father Makar's connections in the city. We also discover that Father Makar has been seeking information about Natalya. He has also been keeping Aksinya secret. About Aksinya, Father Makar's opinion is direct--he still thinks she is insane. Father Dobrushin and Ekaterina come to Aksinya's defense. The ultimate problem with Aksinya is exactly what Father Makar thinks is what the rest of the world with think.
Father Dobrushin caps this piece with his question: “Whether she is insane or not, is not the main question to my mind. What I want to know is does the Cardinal seek her, and what happened to the Lady Natalya?” You should realize that all this is a set up. I have given you all kinds of foreshadowing and hints. These bind the scenes together and provide the background for what will happen next. Tomorrow, more of this important conversation (don't forget, Aksinya is listening).
Friday, April 29, 2011
A New Novel, Part 207 Have You Heard from the Demon?
29 Apr 2011, A New Novel, Part 207 Have You Heard from the Demon?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The priests form the Ecclesia have gone to conduct morning prayers. Aksinya and Ekaterina follow them…
Aksinya followed Ekaterina into the Ecclesia. She paused at the door for a moment, but didn’t feel any pain. Instead, she felt her spirit leap when she passed through the doorway. She was surprised to see so many people in the hard seats. Most of them knelt in front of the pews with their heads bowed. Father Makar and Father Dobrushin stood behind the rail at the back and also prayed. Ekaterina led Aksinya to a rank of padded seats at the side. She gave a smile, “Being the Matushka of the Ecclesia has some privileges. She knelt on the padded kneeler in front of the seat, and Aksinya copied her.
Right at seven, Father Makar started the service. They celebrated the morning prayers without communion. Father Dobrushin helped him and lectured the readings. Father Makar gave a very short homily. At the end, they sang a hymn and Father Makar announced the blessing. The people left and Ekaterina led Aksinya back to the kitchen. The water was hot by then and Ekaterina made tea while Aksinya poured boiling water into the dish tub and mixed in some cooler water and lye soup to wash the dishes. Ekaterina put more water on to boil, “On wash day, we get all the tea we want. The water has to keep boiling all day, you see.”
Aksinya’s lips turned up at that. She didn’t glance up, “What do Father Makar and Father Dobrushin do during the day?”
“They visit the parishioners who are sick or have needs. They pray with people and take communion to those who can’t get out. They go to the train station when we hear that refugees are coming in.”
“How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?”
Ekaterina sighed, “They would check with the hospitals and the doctors we know. They would check with the police. The authorities have been very good to us here. They will check with the school…”
“Sacré Coeur?”
“Yes.”
“Do you think they would check at my house?”
“Makar told me he went there first…”
“And?”
“There was no one at home.”
Aksinya let out her breath.
Ekaterina whispered, “Have you heard from the demon?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“Thank God for that blessing,” Ekaterina crossed herself, “I don’t know what I would do if you said you had seen him in here.”
“He would not like it here.”
“That is doubly good for us.”
“Yes.”
They spent the rest of the day doing the wash. They had a break at noon when Father Makar and Father Dobrushin conducted the noon prayers with communion. The Ecclesia was filled. Aksinya and Ekaterina communed, and Aksinya was amazed that she could take the bread and wine mixture without nausea. They drank tea in the afternoon and finished the wash. When all the laundry was hung in the weak sunlight behind the rectory, they cleaned the Ecclesia.
Ekaterina remarked, “Usually, on wash day, I don’t have time to get to the Ecclesia, but today with your help, we were finished early.”
They didn’t finish cleaning the Ecclesia. Around five, Ekaterina took Aksinya back into the kitchen and Aksinya peeled potatoes and cut onions. Ekaterina put the vegetables with some thin slices of bacon in a pot and left it to cook while they went to evening prayers. The Ecclesia was almost as full as in the morning. Ekaterina and Aksinya sat in their seats to the side. She sent Aksinya back once to check the food on the stove. They all ate together after evening prayers and Aksinya went to bed. She fell asleep with the prayers of the rosary still on her lips.
I am setting you up for a time transition. Plus I am giving you some information about the days in the Ecclesia (among other things). Note the changes in Aksinya. Her spirit leaps and she has no nausea, no pain. Ekaterina has brought Aksinya into the fold of the Ecclesia. They use the special padded kneelers and seats. I don't tell you anything. From what I show you, can't you feel Aksinya's joy in participation. She gets to help, and she gets to participate in the small joys of a Matushka--tea all day on wash day.
Aksinya wants to know about what the priests do all day (other than lead the services in the Ecclesia). Note the last comment about their work: they go to the train station when they hear about refugees. These are refugees from Russia moving from one war torn country to another.
Aksinya drops a bomb: “How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?” You knew this was at the back of Aksinya's mind--I couldn't let you forget. Look closely at the answers Ekaterina gives--especially the remark about the authorities. This is a foreshadowing. Then Ekaterina tells Aksinya a bit of disturbing information--no one was at her house. I leave it at that. Aksinya lets out her breath--if you think about the ramifications, they aren't good. Aksinya's house has been abandoned. This is a foreshadowing. I won't tell you all the ramifications--you should guess (soon you will know).
Ekaterina is more concerned about the demon. We know the demon would not come into the Ecclesia--or any other holy place. This is a foreshadowing.
Then, the rest of the day. The purpose in giving you a full day, like this, is to provide information for a transition. I'll give you the transition tomorrow. Not only that, I also give you info on the Ecclesia itself. The description of the area behind the rectory is an intentional foreshadowing. We get to see their supper and the evening prayers. Note, in all, Aksinya can participate in the worship. She falls asleep with her prayers on her lips. All is peaceful for Aksinya--perhaps too peaceful.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
The priests form the Ecclesia have gone to conduct morning prayers. Aksinya and Ekaterina follow them…
Aksinya followed Ekaterina into the Ecclesia. She paused at the door for a moment, but didn’t feel any pain. Instead, she felt her spirit leap when she passed through the doorway. She was surprised to see so many people in the hard seats. Most of them knelt in front of the pews with their heads bowed. Father Makar and Father Dobrushin stood behind the rail at the back and also prayed. Ekaterina led Aksinya to a rank of padded seats at the side. She gave a smile, “Being the Matushka of the Ecclesia has some privileges. She knelt on the padded kneeler in front of the seat, and Aksinya copied her.
Right at seven, Father Makar started the service. They celebrated the morning prayers without communion. Father Dobrushin helped him and lectured the readings. Father Makar gave a very short homily. At the end, they sang a hymn and Father Makar announced the blessing. The people left and Ekaterina led Aksinya back to the kitchen. The water was hot by then and Ekaterina made tea while Aksinya poured boiling water into the dish tub and mixed in some cooler water and lye soup to wash the dishes. Ekaterina put more water on to boil, “On wash day, we get all the tea we want. The water has to keep boiling all day, you see.”
Aksinya’s lips turned up at that. She didn’t glance up, “What do Father Makar and Father Dobrushin do during the day?”
“They visit the parishioners who are sick or have needs. They pray with people and take communion to those who can’t get out. They go to the train station when we hear that refugees are coming in.”
“How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?”
Ekaterina sighed, “They would check with the hospitals and the doctors we know. They would check with the police. The authorities have been very good to us here. They will check with the school…”
“Sacré Coeur?”
“Yes.”
“Do you think they would check at my house?”
“Makar told me he went there first…”
“And?”
“There was no one at home.”
Aksinya let out her breath.
Ekaterina whispered, “Have you heard from the demon?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“Thank God for that blessing,” Ekaterina crossed herself, “I don’t know what I would do if you said you had seen him in here.”
“He would not like it here.”
“That is doubly good for us.”
“Yes.”
They spent the rest of the day doing the wash. They had a break at noon when Father Makar and Father Dobrushin conducted the noon prayers with communion. The Ecclesia was filled. Aksinya and Ekaterina communed, and Aksinya was amazed that she could take the bread and wine mixture without nausea. They drank tea in the afternoon and finished the wash. When all the laundry was hung in the weak sunlight behind the rectory, they cleaned the Ecclesia.
Ekaterina remarked, “Usually, on wash day, I don’t have time to get to the Ecclesia, but today with your help, we were finished early.”
They didn’t finish cleaning the Ecclesia. Around five, Ekaterina took Aksinya back into the kitchen and Aksinya peeled potatoes and cut onions. Ekaterina put the vegetables with some thin slices of bacon in a pot and left it to cook while they went to evening prayers. The Ecclesia was almost as full as in the morning. Ekaterina and Aksinya sat in their seats to the side. She sent Aksinya back once to check the food on the stove. They all ate together after evening prayers and Aksinya went to bed. She fell asleep with the prayers of the rosary still on her lips.
I am setting you up for a time transition. Plus I am giving you some information about the days in the Ecclesia (among other things). Note the changes in Aksinya. Her spirit leaps and she has no nausea, no pain. Ekaterina has brought Aksinya into the fold of the Ecclesia. They use the special padded kneelers and seats. I don't tell you anything. From what I show you, can't you feel Aksinya's joy in participation. She gets to help, and she gets to participate in the small joys of a Matushka--tea all day on wash day.
Aksinya wants to know about what the priests do all day (other than lead the services in the Ecclesia). Note the last comment about their work: they go to the train station when they hear about refugees. These are refugees from Russia moving from one war torn country to another.
Aksinya drops a bomb: “How would they find out about the Lady Natalya?” You knew this was at the back of Aksinya's mind--I couldn't let you forget. Look closely at the answers Ekaterina gives--especially the remark about the authorities. This is a foreshadowing. Then Ekaterina tells Aksinya a bit of disturbing information--no one was at her house. I leave it at that. Aksinya lets out her breath--if you think about the ramifications, they aren't good. Aksinya's house has been abandoned. This is a foreshadowing. I won't tell you all the ramifications--you should guess (soon you will know).
Ekaterina is more concerned about the demon. We know the demon would not come into the Ecclesia--or any other holy place. This is a foreshadowing.
Then, the rest of the day. The purpose in giving you a full day, like this, is to provide information for a transition. I'll give you the transition tomorrow. Not only that, I also give you info on the Ecclesia itself. The description of the area behind the rectory is an intentional foreshadowing. We get to see their supper and the evening prayers. Note, in all, Aksinya can participate in the worship. She falls asleep with her prayers on her lips. All is peaceful for Aksinya--perhaps too peaceful.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
A New Novel, Part 206 It is Time Now for Morning Prayers
28 Apr 2011, A New Novel, Part 206 It is Time Now for Morning Prayers
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
All the current inhabitants of the rectory are in the kitchen for breakfast. It is a very fine breakfast for the priests and Ekaterina--not so much for Aksinya…
Father Makar offered a blessing and they crossed themselves. Ekaterina served them from the large pot on the table. Aksinya poured the tea into the large mugs. Father Makar took a long drink of the tea. He ate the kasha with relish.
Aksinya sipped her tea and sniffed at the kasha.
Father Makar asked, “Anything wrong, Countess?”
Aksinya didn’t look up, “I’ve never had anything like this before.” She took a bite of the kasha.
Father Makar finished his bowl, “Well that’s all we have until supper. It’ll stick to your ribs.”
Aksinya slowly devoured the buckwheat groat porridge. She washed it down with the very strong tea. When she was finished, she took her bowl and mug to the dish tub and laid them inside. She put water on to heat to wash the morning dishes.
Ekaterina took her arm, “Let the water heat. We’ll do the dishes later. It is time now for the morning prayers.”
The breakfast begins simply with a prayer. Aksinya helps serve. Kasha is a Russian favorite--or at least it is a traditional breakfast food to most poor Russians. Therefore, it is familiar. Tea and kasha, what could be better than that? Aksinya is used to much finer food--the bread yesterday was much better, in her mind, than kasha. Plus, the tea is not how she is used to drinking it. Is the old Aksinya coming back out?
Father Makar realizes Aksinya's problem--he isn't very helpful, but Aksinya needs a nudge anyway. Aksinya's statement is ironic--she has not eaten kasha before. Note, that is all the food they will eat until supper. This is very typical of the times. Aksinya has been well trained. She now knows how to wash dishes. Ekaterina calls her to the morning prayers. She was too late the morning before to make them. Tomorrow, at morning prayers.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
All the current inhabitants of the rectory are in the kitchen for breakfast. It is a very fine breakfast for the priests and Ekaterina--not so much for Aksinya…
Father Makar offered a blessing and they crossed themselves. Ekaterina served them from the large pot on the table. Aksinya poured the tea into the large mugs. Father Makar took a long drink of the tea. He ate the kasha with relish.
Aksinya sipped her tea and sniffed at the kasha.
Father Makar asked, “Anything wrong, Countess?”
Aksinya didn’t look up, “I’ve never had anything like this before.” She took a bite of the kasha.
Father Makar finished his bowl, “Well that’s all we have until supper. It’ll stick to your ribs.”
Aksinya slowly devoured the buckwheat groat porridge. She washed it down with the very strong tea. When she was finished, she took her bowl and mug to the dish tub and laid them inside. She put water on to heat to wash the morning dishes.
Ekaterina took her arm, “Let the water heat. We’ll do the dishes later. It is time now for the morning prayers.”
The breakfast begins simply with a prayer. Aksinya helps serve. Kasha is a Russian favorite--or at least it is a traditional breakfast food to most poor Russians. Therefore, it is familiar. Tea and kasha, what could be better than that? Aksinya is used to much finer food--the bread yesterday was much better, in her mind, than kasha. Plus, the tea is not how she is used to drinking it. Is the old Aksinya coming back out?
Father Makar realizes Aksinya's problem--he isn't very helpful, but Aksinya needs a nudge anyway. Aksinya's statement is ironic--she has not eaten kasha before. Note, that is all the food they will eat until supper. This is very typical of the times. Aksinya has been well trained. She now knows how to wash dishes. Ekaterina calls her to the morning prayers. She was too late the morning before to make them. Tomorrow, at morning prayers.
Monday, April 25, 2011
A New Novel, Part 203 Let Me Brush Your Hair
A New Novel, Part 203 Let Me Brush Your Hair
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon fromRussia to Austria
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from
Father Makar obviously wishes to discuss the issue of Aksinya and what he learned about Natalya with Father Dobrushin. He signaled Ekaterina to take Aksinya out of the kitchen…
Ekaterina took Aksinya to the room and shared with Father Makar. In it was a big schrank, a desk and chair, and a large bed topped with a thick comforter. Ekaterina led Aksinya to the chair and sat her in it. She took a brush and began to brush Aksinya’s hair, “You have beautiful hair, Countess.”
“Is it growing out?”
“Very nicely. Why did you cut it?”
“I gave it to the demon to contract him.”
Ekaterina paused a moment then continued to brush Aksinya’s hair. She didn’t say anything for a while. Then she asked, “Countess, do you need anything?”
“I need nothing, and right now, I have nothing. Perhaps the two go together.” She turned suddenly in the chair, “Let me brush your hair.”
Ekaterina thought a moment then nodded. She handed the brush to Aksinya and sat.
Aksinya fumbled a little with the thick braids in Ekaterina’s hair, “I used to be so good with braids, but I haven’t been able to…” Aksinya ran the brush through the Matushka’s hair. Ekaterina’s hair was thick and dark with silver streaks. It wasn’t as fine and soft like Aksinya’s hair, but it was very wonderful to feel.
Ekaterina closed her eyes, “Are you happy here, Countess?”
“I don’t know what happiness is.”
“Is that so? Tomorrow, you will help me all day. We must prepare breakfast and supper. It is also the day to wash.”
“I have never cooked anything, and I don’t know about washing.”
“Then you will learn.”
“Yes, I will learn.”
We have a small transition to a new scene without much of a break. Still the scene must be set. The setting is Father Makar and Ekaterina’s bedroom. I show you the room through some simple description. Then give you both barrels of the other subject you can’t forget—the hair. Don’t you love these symbols? They are so easy to use and to communicate in a novel. We have had the hair from the beginning. It is such a powerful symbol of Aksinya’s sin and attachment to the demon, it can’t ever be forgotten.
Ekaterina has no idea the minefield she steps into when she begins to brush and comment on Aksinya’s hair. Part of the wonder of the time is this brushing of hair. In the modern era, we can’t imagine that people would only wash themselves weekly, if that. Women did not routinely wash their hair. Brushing was necessary. Everyone’s hair shown because of the oil in it. Women brushed their hair until the oil was distributed—it shown.
Aksinya’s concern about her hair growing out provides a very important note to us. She chose to give the demon her hair because that was something that would grow back. It seemed slow to grow before, so we wondered that perhaps it would not. Natalya reassured us that is was growing. Now, so does Ekaterina.
Ekaterina is very wise—she notes the hair was cut and is growing out. The answer she gets causes her surprise—see how everything leads back to the demon? Look at Ekaterina’s next question—how perceptive she is, and how little Aksinya understands anything. Ekaterina asks: “Countess, do you need anything?” Of course Aksinya needs much. She needs encouragement and help. She needs to get rid of the contract with the demon. She needs to know she is forgiven. Aksinya needs so much, but she can’t perceive this. Still, Aksinya’s reply is filled with some wisdom and understanding of where she is. Aksinya does have some perception of her need. The next demand from Aksinya shows this: “Let me brush your hair.” Do you remember the last statement at the table--the one about the priests confessing each other? This is the equivalent to Aksinya. Ekaterina understands this—that is the reason for her hesitation. Still, this, she knows, will be theraputive to Aksinya.
With the brushing of Ekaterina’s hair, I can show you more description of her and let you see a tiny part of her life and personality. Plus, Aksinya has not been able to braid her hair for a while. Perhaps Aksinya thought she would be asking the questions of the Matushka, but Ekaterina is in control here. Trough this, I get to show you more about Aksinya. Ekaterina asks: “Are you happy here, Countess?” We aren’t certain about Aksinya’s happiness and neither is she. She doesn’t know what happiness is. Remember, to Aksinya sorcery and luxuria were happiness. She doesn’t have this anymore—so what is happiness. Ekaterina provides some basis for future happiness for Aksinya, but Aksinya is still dubious. Does work really bring happiness? Aksinya is willing to try. Tomorrow, work in the Ecclesia.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
A New Novel, Part 202 Do You Need Anything?
A New Novel, Part 202 Do You Need Anything?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon fromRussia to Austria
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from
The after supper conversation showed much concerning the relationship of the priests and Matushka of the Ecclesia. Aksinya has her own questions to ask…
Aksinya glanced back at the bowl she held. She placed it carefully on the counter then she stepped over to the table.
She stood silently until Father Makar turned her a stern look, and asked, “Do you need anything?”
“Please, Father Makar, have you heard anything about Lady Natalya.”
He looked her up and down, “No, nothing yet.” While Aksinya’s face was still downturned, he signaled with his eyes to Ekaterina.
Ekaterina came to Aksinya’s side, “The dishes are almost finished, Countess. We will leave the rest to Father Makar and Father Dobrushin. I’ll help you prepare for bed.”
Aksinya clenched her hands together, “Is there something you aren’t telling me?”
Father Makar pushed his chair back a little to get out of Aksinya’s reach, “There is nothing to tell. No one knows what happened to her. I…I’ll check again tomorrow. You needn’t be concerned.”
“But I am concerned.” Aksinya wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, “I need her.”
Ekaterina clucked, “That’s all right. You have us, and you have God. We will help you, and we will try everything to find the Lady Natalya.” She took Aksinya by the arm and led her toward the back of the rectory.
Aksinya absorbed the information she could from Ekaterina and what Ekaterina spoke about the priests, but she has her own question. It is the question I will not let you forget and the question Aksinya can’t forget.
Aksinya has changed. She is adapting to her new role. She does not want to irritate the priests and she understands that Father Makar is no happy with her. I show you her approach to the priest. She simply stands until he addresses her. This is the way servants act before their masters. Aksinya understands her position well.
Aksinya wants to know about Natalya. Father Makar obviously knows more than he is telling. Watch him. I don’t tell you anything. While Aksinya isn’t watching, Father Makar gives a signal to Ekaterina. She moves to take Aksinya out of the kitchen.
Aksinya knows Father Makar is hiding something from her. Father Makar is afraid of Aksinya—see how he moves away from her. We can taste the equivocation in Father Makar’s response to her.
Aksinya still doesn’t fully understand her own thoughts or self. She is crying, but I don’t tell you. You understand this by her actions. Ekaterina reassures Aksinya and removes her form the kitchen. We can guess that Father Makar wishes to speak to Father Dobrushin privately about Natalya and Aksinya. Tomorrow, woman talk.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
A New Novel, Part 201 They Must Confess Each Other
A New Novel, Part 201 They Must Confess Each Other
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya’s first supper in the Ecclesia is a simple one—that’s all they have to eat. This is a friendly place for Aksinya. Still, the atmosphere is tense because of Aksinya, and she has questions…
After supper, Aksinya and Ekaterina cleaned the dishes and the kitchen while Father Makar and Dobrushin spoke quietly at the table. Ekaterina pushed the hair away from her face with the back of her hand and whispered, “They would speak until the morning hours if I let them.”
“You will not let them?”
“Makar is my husband. I have work in the morning and he has work too. It would be foolish for me to go to a cold bed and foolish for him to not be able to accomplish his work in the morning.”
“I see.”
“You have to look after a husband just as you would look after a boy—they are just older boys.”
“I see.”
Father Makar glanced up, “Just what are you telling her Katyushenka?”
“About how foolish men are…”
Aksinya stared at her.
Father Makar frowned.
Ekaterina put up her finger, “Tut, tut, don’t say a word Makaruska. You wouldn’t want Father Dobrushin to have to take your confession more than once this week.”
Aksinya still stared at her, “They must confess to one another?”
“Of course they must confess. They must confess more than anyone. Everyone sins, but if you wish to help others, you must be first willing to help yourself.”
“I see.”
Aksinya is accomplishing the work Father Dobrushin set her to. She is helping Ekaterina in the kitchen. We have moved into an entirely different sphere. Aksinya has accepted this as completely natural. She is learning. She will get more education than she might have expected. I wish to get you to think about the men and woman who serve in this place. They are not automations. We have already seen they have different thoughts especially about Aksinya. There are more differences and similarities. These are important to mark—this is part of building characters within a novel.
Father Makar and Father Dobrushin are discussing thing. The what is not important. Note that I don’t tell you that they are in a discussion—I show you this. They spoke quietly at the table. Then Ekaterina gives you more: “They would speak until the morning hours if I let them.” We discover the balance of who is in charge of the rectory. This should have been evident before. It becomes very evident now. Ekaterina will not let the men stay up all night even if they wished.
In this very short exchange and description, the friendship between Makar and Dobrushin is very evident—you don’t stay up all night in discussion with those you don’t like. Ekaterina is the practical one. Perhaps this is somewhat stereotypical, but we know it is true. Ekaterina says much in her simple statement: “Makar is my husband. I have work in the morning and he has work too. It would be foolish for me to go to a cold bed and foolish for him to not be able to accomplish his work in the morning.” You should be able to tease much out of this.
Aksinya’s answer leaves us unsure of how much she really understands, but Aksinya doesn’t understand much about love or taking care of others. This is the contrast I want you to see. First, that of friends, and second, that of lovers.
Ekaterina goes even further in her explanation. It is certainly something Aksinya has likely never heard before. Ekaterina’s straightforward way of speaking is in some ways similar to Aksinya and in many ways not similar. Again, Aksinya’s response doesn’t let us know if she understands at all.
Fater Makar finally notices that Ekaterina is speaking about him and Father Dobrushin. He uses a Russian diminutive for Ekaterina. Russian friends and lovers address each other in diminutives. Ekaterina playfully tells her husband she is telling Aksinya how foolish men are. Notice Aksinya’s response—she had no idea this is what Ekaterina was telling her. We guessed this.
Don’t you love Ekaterina’s reply? She is playful and fun. She isn’t afraid to tease her too serious husband. Do you remember that Father Makar called Father Dobrushin too serious when they first met Aksinya? Father Makar also has a serious side. Ekaterina is the balance for him—she makes him less serious. This then allows me to bring into the conversation the main point I wished to make—that of confession.
The priests confess one another—this is an important and recurring thing they must accomplish. This is what Aksinya must see and what I wish you to see. This is part of her learning. They must confess more than anyone. If you wish to help others, you must first help yourself. Tomorrow, Aksinya has questions.
Friday, April 22, 2011
A New Novel, Part 200 Get Father Dobrushin
A New Novel, Part 200 Get Father Dobrushin
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya is helping Ekaterina with dinner. It is really a supper and not a dinner, but it is the best they have in the Ecclesia. The war is over, but food is hard to come by. I don’t make a big deal about this, but this is Aksinya’s movement into the real world of the people and the times…
Father Makar entered the kitchen. He stared at Aksinya for a moment, but sat at the table.
Ekaterina nodded to Aksinya, “Please get Father Dobrushin. He will be praying in the Ecclesia.”
Aksinya nodded and stepped through the door and down the hall. She passed through the sacristy with the hanging vestments and into the nave. Father Dobrushin knelt at the altar. His hands were clasped before him so tightly the veins on them stood out. Aksinya barely made a sound as she approached.
She stopped in amazement. Her stomach didn’t bother her. The crucifix between her breasts didn’t burn her. Her body felt light and free. She stood there transfixed. She felt a touch on her arm and started. Father Dobrushin smiled, “Countess?”
“Ah,” she muttered, “I’m to call you to supper.”
“What were you thinking?”
Her lips turned up a little, “How pleasant it was to not feel pain in here. I have lived for a long while with only nausea and suffering when I entered a church.”
“That is a great thing to celebrate. Come to supper. It will surely not incite luxuria.”
“It will not because I had a hand in making it. A small hand…I did peel the potatoes and set the table.”
“That is a good beginning.” Father Dobrushin stood, “Come, let’s go to supper.”
Aksinya followed the priest back to the kitchen. He sat, and she sat across from him. Father Makar said the prayer and they all crossed themselves. They had boiled potatoes covered with bacon grease and flour gravy. Some tiny bits of bacon speckled the gravy. There was also strong Russian tea.
We see Father Makar enter the kitchen, and we note again his animosity. The negative is not strong, but we feel the tension. He does not want Aksinya here—still he allows her without directly acknowledging her. Perhaps this is cruel of him, but we know some of his thoughts about her.
Ekaterina sends Aksinya to retrieve Father Dobrushin. This indicates the priest’s habits in prayer and Ekaterina’s keen observation. Aksinya goes immediately. She has accepted her role and Ekaterina’s authority.
I give you some description of the ecclesia and setting for the scene here as Aksinya moves from the rectory into the nave. We can guess Father Dobrushin’s prayers. I give you a little description to show you the intensity of his prayer. Then Aksinya’s and our realization—she is not nauseous and the crucifix doesn’t heat. All is well between her and God at this moment. She feels light and free. We are pleased with this as much as she is. Father Dobrushin has to break her thoughts. We find that he is sensitive to these things. His conversation in the nave is a direct contrast to his conversation with Aksinya before.
I let you see Aksinya’s new pride in what she is doing, but certainly, this will not excite luxuria—just as Father Dobrushin says. I give you a short description of their supper. It is simple and plain. Note, that the word here is supper and not dinner, because this could never be called a dinner. It is about as simple as you could imagine. Tomorrow, after supper.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Aksinya is helping Ekaterina with dinner. It is really a supper and not a dinner, but it is the best they have in the Ecclesia. The war is over, but food is hard to come by. I don’t make a big deal about this, but this is Aksinya’s movement into the real world of the people and the times…
Father Makar entered the kitchen. He stared at Aksinya for a moment, but sat at the table.
Ekaterina nodded to Aksinya, “Please get Father Dobrushin. He will be praying in the Ecclesia.”
Aksinya nodded and stepped through the door and down the hall. She passed through the sacristy with the hanging vestments and into the nave. Father Dobrushin knelt at the altar. His hands were clasped before him so tightly the veins on them stood out. Aksinya barely made a sound as she approached.
She stopped in amazement. Her stomach didn’t bother her. The crucifix between her breasts didn’t burn her. Her body felt light and free. She stood there transfixed. She felt a touch on her arm and started. Father Dobrushin smiled, “Countess?”
“Ah,” she muttered, “I’m to call you to supper.”
“What were you thinking?”
Her lips turned up a little, “How pleasant it was to not feel pain in here. I have lived for a long while with only nausea and suffering when I entered a church.”
“That is a great thing to celebrate. Come to supper. It will surely not incite luxuria.”
“It will not because I had a hand in making it. A small hand…I did peel the potatoes and set the table.”
“That is a good beginning.” Father Dobrushin stood, “Come, let’s go to supper.”
Aksinya followed the priest back to the kitchen. He sat, and she sat across from him. Father Makar said the prayer and they all crossed themselves. They had boiled potatoes covered with bacon grease and flour gravy. Some tiny bits of bacon speckled the gravy. There was also strong Russian tea.
We see Father Makar enter the kitchen, and we note again his animosity. The negative is not strong, but we feel the tension. He does not want Aksinya here—still he allows her without directly acknowledging her. Perhaps this is cruel of him, but we know some of his thoughts about her.
Ekaterina sends Aksinya to retrieve Father Dobrushin. This indicates the priest’s habits in prayer and Ekaterina’s keen observation. Aksinya goes immediately. She has accepted her role and Ekaterina’s authority.
I give you some description of the ecclesia and setting for the scene here as Aksinya moves from the rectory into the nave. We can guess Father Dobrushin’s prayers. I give you a little description to show you the intensity of his prayer. Then Aksinya’s and our realization—she is not nauseous and the crucifix doesn’t heat. All is well between her and God at this moment. She feels light and free. We are pleased with this as much as she is. Father Dobrushin has to break her thoughts. We find that he is sensitive to these things. His conversation in the nave is a direct contrast to his conversation with Aksinya before.
I let you see Aksinya’s new pride in what she is doing, but certainly, this will not excite luxuria—just as Father Dobrushin says. I give you a short description of their supper. It is simple and plain. Note, that the word here is supper and not dinner, because this could never be called a dinner. It is about as simple as you could imagine. Tomorrow, after supper.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
A New Novel, Part 199 Do You Know How to Cook Anything?
A New Novel, Part 199 Do You Know How to Cook Anything?
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Father Dobrushin and Aksinya had their conversation. The Father set Aksinya to her tasks. One was to help Ekaterina…
When Aksinya entered the kitchen, Ekaterina twitched her lips, “There you are, Countess. Do you know how to cook anything?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“Can you make tea?”
Aksinya shook her head again.
Ekaterina brought over a knife, “I will show you how to peel potatoes, yes.”
“Yes.”
Aksinya sat in the corner of the kitchen and peeled potatoes. She wasn’t very fast, but it kept her occupied. Ekaterina attempted to teach her something about cooking. Aksinya listened attentively and tried to remember everything.
When the food was cooked, Ekaterina asked Aksinya, “Countess, do you know how to set a table?”
Aksinya shook her head, “I know where the silver is supposed to go, and if you show me…”
Ekaterina smiled, “We have no silver, but I will show you.” She handed Aksinya a fork and a spoon for each place.
Aksinya placed them on the table while Ekaterina instructed her. Aksinya’s lips turned up, “It wasn’t difficult.”
“Most things are not. You just have to know what to do.”
“Yes.”
We know Aksinya is not trained in any normal domestic work. Ekaterina is not unkind, she just needs to know where to begin. Thus the questions. Ekaterina is very matter of fact about the whole thing. So, she starts Aksinya with peeling potatoes. A good skill for anyone and the beginnings of everything in a Russian kitchen.
Observe the condition of Aksinya now. She is a drudge in the kitchen of the rectory of an Ecclesia. The Countess is little more than a servant. This makes Ekaterina’s address to Aksinya as Countess all the more ironic.
Ekaterina is providing skills in a subject that has not been important to Aksinya at all. Aksinya is occupied and treated as an adult and not a helpless noble. Aksinya herself sees this as a subject she needs to learn. Through this, I show you more about the household: they have no silver, they have no need of knives (no meat), there is not much to it (they have little). Tomorrow, more at dinner.
For those who haven’t been following this blog, let me introduce it a little. I am currently blogging my 21st novel that has the working title Daemon. The novel is about Aksinya, a sorceress, who, to save her family from the Bolsheviks, called and contracted the demon, Asmodeus. Her family was murdered anyway, and she fled with the demon from Russia to Austria.
Father Dobrushin and Aksinya had their conversation. The Father set Aksinya to her tasks. One was to help Ekaterina…
When Aksinya entered the kitchen, Ekaterina twitched her lips, “There you are, Countess. Do you know how to cook anything?”
Aksinya shook her head.
“Can you make tea?”
Aksinya shook her head again.
Ekaterina brought over a knife, “I will show you how to peel potatoes, yes.”
“Yes.”
Aksinya sat in the corner of the kitchen and peeled potatoes. She wasn’t very fast, but it kept her occupied. Ekaterina attempted to teach her something about cooking. Aksinya listened attentively and tried to remember everything.
When the food was cooked, Ekaterina asked Aksinya, “Countess, do you know how to set a table?”
Aksinya shook her head, “I know where the silver is supposed to go, and if you show me…”
Ekaterina smiled, “We have no silver, but I will show you.” She handed Aksinya a fork and a spoon for each place.
Aksinya placed them on the table while Ekaterina instructed her. Aksinya’s lips turned up, “It wasn’t difficult.”
“Most things are not. You just have to know what to do.”
“Yes.”
We know Aksinya is not trained in any normal domestic work. Ekaterina is not unkind, she just needs to know where to begin. Thus the questions. Ekaterina is very matter of fact about the whole thing. So, she starts Aksinya with peeling potatoes. A good skill for anyone and the beginnings of everything in a Russian kitchen.
Observe the condition of Aksinya now. She is a drudge in the kitchen of the rectory of an Ecclesia. The Countess is little more than a servant. This makes Ekaterina’s address to Aksinya as Countess all the more ironic.
Ekaterina is providing skills in a subject that has not been important to Aksinya at all. Aksinya is occupied and treated as an adult and not a helpless noble. Aksinya herself sees this as a subject she needs to learn. Through this, I show you more about the household: they have no silver, they have no need of knives (no meat), there is not much to it (they have little). Tomorrow, more at dinner.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
A New Novel, Part 58 Dinner Setting
Some more description and a transition to get you to dinner with Aksinya and Natalya.
They made their way out of the dormitory and through the corridor on the lower floor of the school. The elementary level girls stood in careful lines with their teachers ahead of them. The older girls stood in the halls and waited for the supper bells. They all carefully scrutinized Aksinya and Natalya as the two of them followed Frau Drescher and the Reverend Mother. Whispers followed in their wake. The corridor from the school ended in a door barred to the outside. On the left was a large double door with a rounded top that led into the convent. Just before six, the Reverend Mother opened the doors and nodded to the elderly sister inside. The sister picked up a small block bell and a matching mallet. She rang the quiet bell and began to move among the girls in the hall, and they began to file into the room.
The Reverend Mother and Frau Drescher led Aksinya and Natalya into the large dining room. There were at least twenty tables. The tables were round and each had ten chairs around them. They were covered with lace tablecloths and full silver place settings with cloth napkins. Maids and novice nuns stood at the sides of the room.
As I mentioned before, part of the importance of an education in this period is etiquette and decorum. We will see this in great detail as we move in the world of 1918 in this novel. We can see the setting for dinner at Sacré Coeur is very formal. The uniforms are not completely formal, but they are uniforms and considered appropriate for dinner wear.
I also showed you a little of the students and the school. It's a typical convent school at the time. The convent novices provide the labor and serve the meals. There are maids as well--that indicates the number of novice nuns. There are enough, but not enough to staff so large a dinner.
You might also note, I intend to use the word luncheon for the midday meal and dinner or supper for the evening meal. A supper is a less formal meal with the family and usually not in courses. Dinner is a formal and long meal. This was common at this time. Today, we use the words interchangeably, they were not interchangeable in the near past.
They made their way out of the dormitory and through the corridor on the lower floor of the school. The elementary level girls stood in careful lines with their teachers ahead of them. The older girls stood in the halls and waited for the supper bells. They all carefully scrutinized Aksinya and Natalya as the two of them followed Frau Drescher and the Reverend Mother. Whispers followed in their wake. The corridor from the school ended in a door barred to the outside. On the left was a large double door with a rounded top that led into the convent. Just before six, the Reverend Mother opened the doors and nodded to the elderly sister inside. The sister picked up a small block bell and a matching mallet. She rang the quiet bell and began to move among the girls in the hall, and they began to file into the room.
The Reverend Mother and Frau Drescher led Aksinya and Natalya into the large dining room. There were at least twenty tables. The tables were round and each had ten chairs around them. They were covered with lace tablecloths and full silver place settings with cloth napkins. Maids and novice nuns stood at the sides of the room.
As I mentioned before, part of the importance of an education in this period is etiquette and decorum. We will see this in great detail as we move in the world of 1918 in this novel. We can see the setting for dinner at Sacré Coeur is very formal. The uniforms are not completely formal, but they are uniforms and considered appropriate for dinner wear.
I also showed you a little of the students and the school. It's a typical convent school at the time. The convent novices provide the labor and serve the meals. There are maids as well--that indicates the number of novice nuns. There are enough, but not enough to staff so large a dinner.
You might also note, I intend to use the word luncheon for the midday meal and dinner or supper for the evening meal. A supper is a less formal meal with the family and usually not in courses. Dinner is a formal and long meal. This was common at this time. Today, we use the words interchangeably, they were not interchangeable in the near past.
Friday, November 26, 2010
A New Novel, Part 54 Meals and the Other Details
I mentioned before about meals. The meals I outline in the novel are similar to what most well to do people ate during these times. The poor usually had one to two meals a day. The fashion of eating more meals came into practice late and came from the wealthy. Tea was invented to hold a person over from the very light luncheon (dinner) to the long supper. As I mentioned before, supper was a long meal with many courses, but in most households was not large amounts of food. Any leftovers were the servants meals. In general, before the modern era, meat was very very small amounts and the fish course made up for the lack of protein. The poor received very little protein.
The entire time Frau Drescher spoke, Aksinya gave a running commentary and translation in Russian to Natalya.
Natalya asked many questions in return to Aksinya, but Aksinya was able to answer most of them herself. Finally, she stopped Frau Drescher, “The Lady Natalya wishes to know more about breakfast and luncheon.”
“They are very simple meals. We serve coffee and tea at breakfast. You may have soft boiled eggs, bread, meat, and cheese. Luncheon isn’t much more than that. We have a break of one hour at noon. Usually, the ladies take a long tea, but the dining room is open and food is available there.”
Aksinya explained everything to Natalya.
Frau Drescher was suddenly finished. She made one last statement, “I do have very strict rules about the dormitory. Those rules are to protect the ladies here. I will provide them to you with the materials that include the rest of the details.”
Aksinya asked, “Rest of the details?”
“The linens and use of the facilities. The storage of items. The care of your clothing. The cleaning schedules for your rooms. Each of these things is taken care of for our dormitory students.”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Very good. The Lady Natalya and I like these rooms very much. We accept them. My servant Asmodeus shall bring our clothing and such things as we need.”
The Reverend Mother beamed, “Are you decided then, Countess. You will be studying with us?”
“Yes, we shall.”
The commentary to Natalya and the question from her allows me to explain a little about the meals. It also allows me to expand some about the details. You don't need much, but a touch of them helps increase the realism of the scene and gives you a taste of the complexities of life in the times.
I don't tell you the "strict rules." You can guess most of them--they are the typical rules found in most dormitories. I will give you a little more explanation later, but for now, this is sufficient.
Aksinya clinches the deal by accepting the rooms and puts in a dig to Asmodeus--she calls him "my servant," which he is. The Reverend Mother clarifies the position and that is all for today.
The entire time Frau Drescher spoke, Aksinya gave a running commentary and translation in Russian to Natalya.
Natalya asked many questions in return to Aksinya, but Aksinya was able to answer most of them herself. Finally, she stopped Frau Drescher, “The Lady Natalya wishes to know more about breakfast and luncheon.”
“They are very simple meals. We serve coffee and tea at breakfast. You may have soft boiled eggs, bread, meat, and cheese. Luncheon isn’t much more than that. We have a break of one hour at noon. Usually, the ladies take a long tea, but the dining room is open and food is available there.”
Aksinya explained everything to Natalya.
Frau Drescher was suddenly finished. She made one last statement, “I do have very strict rules about the dormitory. Those rules are to protect the ladies here. I will provide them to you with the materials that include the rest of the details.”
Aksinya asked, “Rest of the details?”
“The linens and use of the facilities. The storage of items. The care of your clothing. The cleaning schedules for your rooms. Each of these things is taken care of for our dormitory students.”
Aksinya cocked her head, “Very good. The Lady Natalya and I like these rooms very much. We accept them. My servant Asmodeus shall bring our clothing and such things as we need.”
The Reverend Mother beamed, “Are you decided then, Countess. You will be studying with us?”
“Yes, we shall.”
The commentary to Natalya and the question from her allows me to explain a little about the meals. It also allows me to expand some about the details. You don't need much, but a touch of them helps increase the realism of the scene and gives you a taste of the complexities of life in the times.
I don't tell you the "strict rules." You can guess most of them--they are the typical rules found in most dormitories. I will give you a little more explanation later, but for now, this is sufficient.
Aksinya clinches the deal by accepting the rooms and puts in a dig to Asmodeus--she calls him "my servant," which he is. The Reverend Mother clarifies the position and that is all for today.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
A New Novel, Part 38 A Transition
Here is the remainder of the scene. I guess I could have left it intact, but I thought that this would give an example of a transition. The bell breaks the scene and gives Aksinya a reprieve from her aunt. Then we get supper.
A servant came to the door and rang a small bell.
Aksinya’s uncle stood, “Supper is ready. Come, countess, you must eat with us and then sleep. Tomorrow, we will discuss what we shall do.”
They entered the family dining room to a very long and formal supper. Natalya quite properly served Aksinya at her shoulder, but Aksinya didn’t seem to notice. Aksinya nodded off a couple of times before dessert. Aunt Brunhilda finally called an end to the supper, and she herself led Aksinya and Natalya to a room on the second floor. It was the best room in the house. Natalya undressed Aksinya and put her to bed. Then she went down to the kitchen to eat her supper. She returned to Aksinya’s room and went to sleep in the attached servant’s chamber. She left the door to her room wide open so she could hear any sound Aksinya might make during the night.
This is an obvious regression that we see in Aksinya. I will show you this characteristic of Aksinya more than once. A psychologist might analyse her as partially manic depressive. She has such energy when she is accomplishing sorcery or when she is focused on something. She becomes an introverted child when she is confronted with a world she does not want to face. In this transition, we see Aksinya in her low stage, but she isn't the only focus of the transition.
Natalya's personality is also displayed and note the slight change. You might think it is for the better. We shall see this more in the future--right now, notice that as Aksinya flags, Natalya just takes over. All the details of life get accomplished by Natalya even when Aksinya cannot or will not act. Look at the detail I tried to show in Natalya. It is as the demon said, Natalya does everything perfectly. In the past, she was punished in spite of her perfection. I might need to indicate more of this perfection especially in this transition. You have not seen any obsessive-compulsive activity in Natalya. She does have some ingrained habits, but she is not obsessive-compulsive. Natalya is perfect in many ways. In the main, she perfectly protects her mistress--keep this in mind and watch what she does. How she reacts.
So, a simple transition. I think there is really no such thing. Every bit of the writing must drive the story forward. There must be no extraneous part. Everything stitches the pieces together to get to the final garment (the novel). In a strong piece of writing, the seams become elements that adorn as well as bind.
I've written more about the transition than the actual length of the transition.
A servant came to the door and rang a small bell.
Aksinya’s uncle stood, “Supper is ready. Come, countess, you must eat with us and then sleep. Tomorrow, we will discuss what we shall do.”
They entered the family dining room to a very long and formal supper. Natalya quite properly served Aksinya at her shoulder, but Aksinya didn’t seem to notice. Aksinya nodded off a couple of times before dessert. Aunt Brunhilda finally called an end to the supper, and she herself led Aksinya and Natalya to a room on the second floor. It was the best room in the house. Natalya undressed Aksinya and put her to bed. Then she went down to the kitchen to eat her supper. She returned to Aksinya’s room and went to sleep in the attached servant’s chamber. She left the door to her room wide open so she could hear any sound Aksinya might make during the night.
This is an obvious regression that we see in Aksinya. I will show you this characteristic of Aksinya more than once. A psychologist might analyse her as partially manic depressive. She has such energy when she is accomplishing sorcery or when she is focused on something. She becomes an introverted child when she is confronted with a world she does not want to face. In this transition, we see Aksinya in her low stage, but she isn't the only focus of the transition.
Natalya's personality is also displayed and note the slight change. You might think it is for the better. We shall see this more in the future--right now, notice that as Aksinya flags, Natalya just takes over. All the details of life get accomplished by Natalya even when Aksinya cannot or will not act. Look at the detail I tried to show in Natalya. It is as the demon said, Natalya does everything perfectly. In the past, she was punished in spite of her perfection. I might need to indicate more of this perfection especially in this transition. You have not seen any obsessive-compulsive activity in Natalya. She does have some ingrained habits, but she is not obsessive-compulsive. Natalya is perfect in many ways. In the main, she perfectly protects her mistress--keep this in mind and watch what she does. How she reacts.
So, a simple transition. I think there is really no such thing. Every bit of the writing must drive the story forward. There must be no extraneous part. Everything stitches the pieces together to get to the final garment (the novel). In a strong piece of writing, the seams become elements that adorn as well as bind.
I've written more about the transition than the actual length of the transition.
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