In the demi-monde

Ordinary life is the life of an ox. It is dull, conformed, routinized. It goes round and round, repeating itself.

To slay a dragon, kill a habit.

Sanctum sanctorum

Where is it, this “pearl of great price”?

Where it’s always been—inside the clam.

Likewise, the chalice, suspended from a bough of the great oak in the walled-off garden of the grown-over castle.

“Look inside yourself.”