In this ACE and Creativity series blog post we have an introduction to Ciara Vacon's short story 'Caeneus to Caenis,' and a link to the story in full.
The struggles of disadvantaged individuals in a society structured around hierarchies of rights are no secret. This pervasive issue of inequality has persisted far beyond the bounds of our modern age. This poem highlights and recognizes the redemption narratives of those who have endured the perils of oppression yet rose above the chains that many cannot escape—themes that hold deep personal significance and resonate with my own experiences.
"Caeneus to Caenis" acknowledges the individual who faced oppression before undergoing a redemptive transformation, emphasizing their vital role in shaping the blueprint of a prosperous and celebrated hero, rather than solely recognizing the person they have become. This poem, however, does not attribute the hero's strength to the abuse they endured. Instead, it honors the unrelenting spirit innate to their character—a spirit that refused to accept defeat.
The image of the golden bird amulet was selected to represent my poem for a variety of interconnected reasons. In Ovid’s Metamorphoses, Caeneus’ final transformation into a golden bird, soaring free from the crushing logs meant to condemn him to the torturous underworld of Tartarus, embodies the enduring vitality of his character and spirit.
Birds have long symbolized freedom, a motif recognized by the Ancient Greeks. For this reason, I find the image of a bird with outstretched wings to be a powerful metaphor for Caeneus’ ability to transcend the constraints imposed upon him. Amulets, often regarded as talismans of protection against malevolent and destructive forces, further amplify this symbolism. Caeneus’ ultimate metamorphosis represents the pinnacle of liberation and a shield against the malice of both mortals and immortals.
Gold, revered by the Ancient Greeks as a symbol of ideal character and exceptional achievement, perfectly aligns with Caeneus’ narrative. Without question, he embodies these qualities, inspiring marvel and admiration among even the greatest of heroes, such as Achilles, who were awestruck by his story.
Read Ciara's full short story: Short story by Ciara Vacon (Doc, 24.3kb)