{This is in response to the prompt on What Pegman Saw, in which a location on Google Maps Street View is selected, and we must write up to 150 words in response. We are now in the Basque country, an autonomous region in Spain.
I used only 100 words this time. Perhaps that was irresponsible. 🙂 You be the judge. I was inspired by the beautiful landscape, and the singular language spoken there, but also thought of the Santiago pilgrimage, and the menacing of the long-gone Spanish Inquisition. All errors are my own.}
Dr. Pritchard, esteemed professor of linguistics, had left us in the dust.
Ten miserable students, lugging backpacks full of water. By noon, we longed to peel them off our sweaty backs, and abandon them along the barren, gravel road. But the looming torture of thirst, or heat stroke, possessed our thoughts like demons.
My idea of a study abroad in Basque country clearly differed from Dr. Pritchard’s. Perusing old manuscripts, Inquisition era. Reading, or hearing lectures, in air-conditioned castles. Drinking beverages, in boozy, breezy bars. Meeting dark, handsome girls.
Not trudging up-mountain to some remote village, like pilgrims, seeking God.
A Pearl of Great Price
100 words judiciously used. Enjoyed the contrast between teacher and student. I could feel the baking heat and the student’s present frustration. But still, I think I’d be hiking on ahead myself! What a perfect little screen capture you found for this tale.
Thanks Karen! I definitely zeroed in on the drudgery side of climbing a mountain path (I too enjoy a good hike!). It seemed like a sulky-student-type thing to focus on. I liked how, in the picture, the sun hit the lens and had a spectrum effect,which made me think “blazing hot.” Living in Florida, I consider myself an expert on this topic.:)
You’ve come up with a great storyline and you draw a good contrast between expectation and reality.
Thank you, Penny. I feel this one could be interesting if explored further. It’s amazing how people’s expectations and interpretations of reality can be worlds apart.:)
You did very well with your 100 words, Andrea. I could feel the heat and frustration. And I have to agree with Josh… good teacher! Sissy students 😉
Walking up the mountain gives a feel how Spanish army moved in and queen of Novarre left. Ofcourse, studying in air-conditioned room has its importance. Learn theory, inspect at ground level. It is both. Honorable Prof. should have walked with you.
I think you’re right about higher learning, its a combination of the practice and theory. The practice, or on the ground research/study can lead to new theory.
I wasn’t aware of that bit of history. I’ll have to look it up, but I’m glad you found the story suited the place.
I just read that King of Spain had invaded and queen of Novarre fled. I do not know the path they followed. But it was on either side of Pyrenees.
I think you used your 100-words very wisely. I felt the heat and heaviness, sprinkled with frustration and regret.
I think someone may change his major soon!
Sounds like a good professor to me. He’s doubtless sitting at a village cafe sipping Izarra with the natives, smoking Gauloises and telling lies.
You may very well be right.