I took the spirit of the Frenchman with me for a walk to find the Constantia chameleons.
The spirit was strong because I discovered two new green dragons.
The bored corgis lolled at my feet.
Polite walkers wondered but did not ask what I was doing, staring at trees for long silent stretches.
The one above has lost the tip of its prehensile tail.
This tiny one below is always in the same spot. Once the eye is used to their patterns they become easier to notice, but it's remarkable how fast they are lost, once you look away again.
The beautiful clear days are almost over again, as another weekend of winter storms approaches.
My mission here is not altogether accomplished. There are obstructions and labyrinths and a dark tunnel or two to negotiate, spanning the impressive range of country, family and livelihood. Like the lesson of the chameleons, we must adapt, and dye. And focus hopefully until we identify that which we came to find.
They are gorgeous. The tail looks like a fiddlehead fern.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shots and elegantly put, Marie - your last paragraph speaks to the human condition.
ReplyDeleteFantastic pictures. Thanks so much for them and your thoughts. "Change is the only constant thing in the universe." May we all dye a few times before we die! Chameleons know what they are doing, and so do you. Keep up the good work, just as they do.
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me of the chameleon's motto: "Life is a bleach and then you dye."
ReplyDeleteI second Anonymous' comment about the human condition. You just about nailed it. So I am focusing. But what is my maximum aperture, and where is my sweet spot?
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DeleteThe last paragraph is perfectly clear, but--and here the Frenchman would be proud--I just enjoyed the second exquisite martini (fulsome), adorned by garlic-stuffed olives. Had I not so imbibed, the last paragraph's meaning would have passed right over.
ReplyDeletePlease do not tarry in dark tunnels.
You may know someone who knows someone who could provide an escort for that tunnel, Clark. It's going to be an interesting one.
DeleteAt your service, of course.
ReplyDeletethe capacity to dye is called mimetic, in French there is a substantive to say it: mimétisme
ReplyDelete