THIRD STORY. Of the Flower-Garden At the Old Woman’s Who Understood Witchcraft
by LovelyMayIn the tale of little Gerda’s quest for her playfellow Kay, her journey brings her to the river’s edge, hoping to find him or learn of his fate. Despite the sorrowful possibility that Kay might have drowned, Gerda’s hope revives with the seasons, as both the Sunshine and the Swallows deny Kay’s demise. Prompted by a blend of hope and longing, she dons her red shoes—an item Kay has never seen—and offers them to the river in exchange for her friend, demonstrating her willingness to part with her most precious possessions for his sake.
Her sacrifice seems in vain as the river returns the shoes, leading her to believe that Kay isn’t there. Nonetheless, in a bid to further reach out, Gerda finds herself inadvertently adrift on a boat. Alone, scared, and shoeless, she passes through beautiful but desolate landscapes, clinging to the hope that this river might lead her to Kay. The serenity and beauty of the surrounding nature stand in sharp contrast to Gerda’s growing despair and isolation.
Rescue comes in an unexpected form—an old woman with a knack for witchcraft, who diverts Gerda to her abode with promises of comfort and care. Yet, beneath the surface of this hospitality, lies the woman’s desire to keep Gerda, evident in her enchantment that makes Gerda forget Kay momentarily. The magical, colorful garden and the witch’s attempts at distraction speak to the enchantments that detain us from our quests, through comfort and the illusion of beauty.
Gerda’s awakening to the absence of roses—symbols of Kay and her past—spurs her memory and reignites her mission, illustrating the power of memory and love to overcome enchantment. This part of Gerda’s journey highlights her innocence and purity, which contrast with the cunning of the witch, yet also her resilience and the strength of her attachment to Kay. The chapter poignantly underscores themes of loss, hope, and the innocence of childhood amidst the broader narrative of a quest fueled by love and friendship.
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