The Red Strand

In Japanese mythology, it is said there once lived a man on the moon. He would descend on Earth to show people their destined partner, then tie an invisible red thread around them to seal their fates. Over time the string would thin from distant stretches, or barb and knot from the tumult of circumstances life brought between the lovers. However, once in while the thread would untangle and soothe, bringing them closer together until perfect harmony.

Very romantic.

Although that is a story worth dreaming about and what younglings today call “manifesting”, this won’t be the the kind of red strand we’ll be focusing on here. This Red Strand is also a representation of fate, not one confided between two people, but the kind that is confined within four corners, 32 pages, and a thick maroon cover — the passport. Although not romantic, the subsequent prose delves into themes of  identity in the context of nationalism and our innate desire to belong. By exploring the dichotomy between the collective and the individual; The Red Strand questions  what it means to have a nationality, heritage, and the narratives we construct when we are associated to certain groups, whether chosen by, or determined for us.   

I hope you enjoy the read, and find a piece of yourself within the words.