Ren Fest Essay

[HannahLeeDee]

In my High School college English class I had to write a paper about a significant place and guess what I picked. The Ren Fest. I did really well on it and writing isn't really my forte... so I hope this isn't bragging but I wanted to post it. This essay really captures my passion for the faire and I hope that it reflects a few others. So if you have time and you want to read it that would be cool.

thanks
Hannah



Hannah
College English
Significant Place Essay

                                                           "Faire Sweet Faire"
        While wearing an outfit that resembles a bar wench's, I make my way through the castle walls. Instantly, my ears are struck by merry songs. Interrupting this sweet moment, my eyes are diverted to a handsome Scotsman clad in a kilt. I take time to ponder the age old question; "What really lies beneath a kilt?" Before creating too many disturbing images, I stroll along the muddy lanes to a much coveted popover stand. My mouth drools in anticipation of the hot fluffy pastry. I sit down on the nearest hay bale to devour my seasonal treat. A soft breeze brushes my face. The winds on the Renaissance Festival grounds are more playful than the winds at home. They provide an energy that recharges me for the rest of my mundane life. I close my eyes to fully appreciate the wind.

         It is shortly after canon, or nine o'clock, and the day has hardly begun. Cast members rush around buying their morning mead and run off to their first show. Sitting on my prickly bench, I see Raphael of the Tortuga Twins prance off to his audience of screaming fans. Then, as if out of thin air, a tiny fairy appears with her double flute. Twig Oaklyn Flewina Thistlebottom, or Twig for short, entices a wide-eyed child. The little girl's smile is so large that it would make an alligator jealous. Abruptly, Twig stops playing and bashfully saunters away. In complete contrast, the Royal Court appears in the corner of my eye. The Lords and Ladies, in matching regal outfits, waltz into my view. The trumpets blow, announcing the required shout, "God save the Queen!"   

         At the Renaissance Festival, I am a Playtron. The dawning of my garb gives me license to proudly display this title. I spend months sewing and researching for the perfect costume. Another young Playtron nods his head to me as he passes by. I try and hide my blushing face, knowing his minor flirtation is only that, minor. He is merely recognizing our shared love for the festival. He and I both have a desire to dress in funny outfits and pay twenty dollars to walk around in mud all day.

        After my fellow Rennie passes, I notice the playful wind is back, but it has brought the smoky aroma of a nearby campfire. As I search for the producer of the glorious smell, I spot the Royal Guard at their camp preparing a delicious meal for the day. The attractive men in red are concocting a stew that would appeal to anyone. Noticing my popover has vanished, my stomach growls. My grumbling insides yearn for another delicious treat. With impeccable timing, the boisterous yodel of a Pickle Boy catches my attention. The Pickle Boys are the closest thing the festival has to rock stars. Their job description includes selling pickles and being as loud and obnoxious as possible. The boys do not struggle with the requirements. I approach the Pickle Boy with enthusiasm. He winks at me when he hands over the crisp dill. With my fresh pickle and a flirtatious smile, I make my way out to enjoy the rest of the faire.

        The only way I can verbalize my desire to wear funny costumes and walk in mud all day is summed up in one word: acceptance. The Renaissance Festival is open to everyone. This place encourages the nerds and outcasts of the world to step out of their shells and be someone else for a day. This magical land is the only place I can wear a bodice and skirt with out receiving smirks and rolled eyes. The word Renaissance means rebirth, and at the Renaissance Festival, I am reborn into another self.  I am a true Rennie at heart and will continue attending the faire for the rest of my life.


Thanks again

[Marietta Graziella]

Well said, and congratulations on a job well done!

[white trillium]

Great job and congrats! You capture the feeling of belonging at fest quite nicely.

[renren]

Huzzah!

[HannahLeeDee]

Thank you all very much.

[MissBubu]

Hey, cast members are getting mead? Why can't I have any? (slinks into corner and pouts)

Nice essay - you captured the mood beautifully.

[Lord Figaro]

Very well said Grizzabella, I think you captured it perfectly.

[Phelyp, Lord Maydestone]

Griz that is a nice piece of writing!  (and I am a teacher!)  When I read it the word 'community' came to mind - that is what we have created and what we support, and it is where we honour and are honoured.  I know I used u's - I'm Canadian!