The Burden of Knowledge Sabelo Nkwalase

by Sabelo Nkwalase

The Burden of Knowledge is a mythological story inspired by the work of Carl Gustav Jung – with mystical and psychoanalytical themes. The story follows a hero on a quest to alleviate himself from a burden he carries, which manifests itself as red matter. Initially, his burden is within him, but once pierced by a crown, his burden seeps out, covering his exterior and worsening his condition. Throughout his quest, the hero is followed by shadows which are projections of his mind. He meets four archetypal characters who agree to assist him based on a medium of exchange. The first, the Stone Guardian, is a protector of a treasure. The second, the Librarian, is a keeper of ancient knowledge and wisdom. Third is the Alchemist, an immortal who traded his flesh for power. Lastly is the Siren, a maiden who exists between life and death. She holds our hero’s fate in her hands.