Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Whimsical Wednesday: Dangerous Beauty

On my last stroll through the French Quarter, I paid a lot of attention to the wrought-iron gates and fences that surround and divide many of these historic buildings. As lovely as these fixtures are, many of them are topped with truly terrifying spikes, the kind that have long been intended to deter unwanted visitors. Seeing such deadly adornments, even those that encircle Jackson Square, made me acknowledge my fascination with things that are beautiful in spite of, or because of, their potential for danger.

Elemental entities, such as air, water, fire, and earth, are the obvious examples of this dichotomy. All of the above can be incredibly remarkable – and incredibly destructive. A windswept palm tree might be a soothing sight, but a hurricane is no laughing matter, and though I love sitting on a beach and watching the waves crash ashore, that same magnificent ocean has destroyed many a sea-faring vessel. Likewise, flames and mountains are equally amazing – but wildfires and landslides are rarely auspicious.

In fact, many aspects of the natural world are simultaneously gorgeous and perilous. I’m particularly smitten by alluring plants – such as the cacti varietals of southern Texas. At certain times of year, they are in full bloom, with vibrant flowers that can easily tantalize the gullible and ensure a rude awakening for those unfamiliar with their baneful needles.

Well, what about you? What "dangerous beauties" fascinate and inspire you – despite their drawbacks? (And, no, I don’t mean the movie starring Catherine McCormack and Rufus Sewell – although that’s quite a flick indeed.)

5 comments:

Tabitha Bird said...

Hi Laura, I am new to your blog. Thank you for visiting my blog and for signing up to follow. You were my 100th follower. so THANK YOU :)

and I love the idea of dangerous beauties. I love storms. The wilder the better.

Natalie said...

Canyons always give me a thrill! It's a little freaky to know that if you fall over the side that will be that, but they are so beautiful.

Laura Martone said...

Hi, Tabitha! I love discovering new blogs - I have Deb to thank for turning me onto yours. And I'm thrilled to be your 100th follower! And, yes, storms are one of my favorites, too - something about the wind and the rain and the moody skies that I find extremely calming.

Ooh, Natalie, I'm with you. I love canyons, too - seeing the Grand Canyon was an incredible experience for just that reason... it was indescribably beautiful, and yet I was way freaked out to know that one false move and I was a goner.

Deb said...

I'm a storm lover too. Rain, thunder, and lightening. Get's the heart pounding and the inspirational juices flowing! Great stuff as long it isn't bad enough to cause injury...

Laura Martone said...

I'm in total agreement, Deb. Nothing like a lightning storm to frighten and inspire. Too bad it's just an ordinary overcast day in New Orleans. Must rely instead on the kitty for entertainment.