A Dilemma in Speculum: An allegory of modern policy
By Dimitri Syrkin-Nikolau and By Miles Kellerman | Feb. 22, 2013Speculum, a minute, secluded village encircled by dense forest, has a security problem. Though the village itself is relatively safe, danger lurks beyond its timber borders. Every time a member of the community ventures into the woods, they return a monstrous version of their former selves. In some cases the transformation takes years; others reappear by nightfall. Regardless, their intention (do they still have intentions?) is the same: to wreak havoc on the community and prey upon the weak. They froth at the mouth like rabid dogs, covered in cuts and bruises beneath the tattered remnants of their former clothes. Some say they no longer feel pain, running at full speed despite missing limbs and inconceivable wounds. Such ghoulish imagery dominates the frightening tales told to Speculum’s children and occupies the minds of their apprehensive parents.
