In his story “Nightwings,” Robert Silverberg introduces us to Gorman, a man regarded by all as a monster. His golden hue, waxen skin, red pupils, and jagged mouth mark him as a Changeling, one whose deformities bar him from entry to any guild. Yet Avluela, the beautiful, young Flier, urges the Watcher to let Gorman travel with them, and the old man reluctantly agrees. For Gorman is strong of build, and they might need protection before they arrive in Roum.
Most of the guildless survive on jobs that no one else will do. Gorman refuses to accept the lowly role to which this future Earth would consign him. He stands erect while others of his kind slink along, debasing their spirits and abandoning their aspirations. He investigates archeological sites and the abandoned technology of a former age. Rememberers admire his curiosity, for he asks questions not even they can answer. Perhaps such inner strength is what attracts Avluela: even though it is forbidden, she finds joy in his company. To the Watcher he is a conundrum. Gorman may mock him for his anxieties, but he also affirms the old man when his faith falters, and the Changeling remains grateful to the beautiful Flier and the old Watcher for including him.
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| She who perceives an inner beauty |
Most will never look past his imperfections. The Sentinel who guards Roum’s gates asks, “What kind of thing are you?” He suggests that Gorman would be of more use to humanity if he were neutered. When the Watcher and Avluela decide to appeal to the Prince of Roum for housing, Gorman warns them not to try, knowing the Prince is a hard and cruel man. He is correct: the Prince agrees to house the party, but at a terrible cost to Avluela. Even a Pilgrim on his way to Jorslem refuses to acknowledge Gorman. The masked man blames his temporary guild for his inability to travel with a Changeling. Such an attitude seems incongruent with his aims, for one who undertakes a pilgrimage does so for the purposes of self-renewal and redemption.
Like Gorman, we all know what it is to be judged unfairly. We have been abused, shunned, and forced to fight for what others would deny us. Yet Gorman has learned to be content with his situation and lack of status. Barred from joining any Guilds, he is freed from the burden of meeting others’ expectations. He models generosity and gratitude, and remains willing to speak with any who will talk with him. Can we say that we have not allowed life’s disappointments to embitter us? Can we welcome and befriend those who initially saw little worth in us? Do we strive to improve ourselves when society consigns us to a status below that of our ambitions?
Oh, to be a worthy monstrosity like Gorman!
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