Huh? Not making any sense? Because of the nature of these little flash fiction vignettes, I thought it would be helpful to index previous back stories and journal entries. Although Artiste’s tales are non-linear, it can help to read some pages in groups by threads of associated content. Of course you could just read them randomly, and trust that it will all come together at some point.
The beginning back story is always a great place to start:
• The Artiste Gullible back story
For this particular installment it also may help to read: Something random?
↓ Transcript
[image] A standing man, with metal skin and rivtets, opens his shirt to expose an open door. Within the cavity a human heart beats with pumps and cogs and hoses.
[text] “I am not super human.” He opens his shirt to me without
hesitation; exposing the cold metal beneath.
“If anything,” he continues, “I am sub-human; made in the image of man. I am but a reflection without potential, imprisoned behind the glass of mimicry. And yet, I hold a hope to be like you … someday.”
With a flip of a tiny clasp he opens a door in his chest revealing his soul. It beats within a cage of brass, suspended in spasmodic rhythm; one wet organic cog married to his mainspring anima.
“For years, humans have integrated mechanical components to their bodies to augment their existence. I think it is only proper that where technology has stepped in to enliven the human soul, the soul might step in to enliven the mechanical void.”
I nod, looking aghast at the pink captive within him. “We manufacture the parts that augment our lives. Where, pray tell, do you acquire the living flesh that beats within yours?”
He smiles, his woven metal skin pulling over the alloy framework of his face. A tiny drop of blood falls from a polished duct beneath his eye. It rolls down his cheek in stigmatic reverie.
“The Wizard provides.”
[text] “I am not super human.” He opens his shirt to me without
hesitation; exposing the cold metal beneath.
“If anything,” he continues, “I am sub-human; made in the image of man. I am but a reflection without potential, imprisoned behind the glass of mimicry. And yet, I hold a hope to be like you … someday.”
With a flip of a tiny clasp he opens a door in his chest revealing his soul. It beats within a cage of brass, suspended in spasmodic rhythm; one wet organic cog married to his mainspring anima.
“For years, humans have integrated mechanical components to their bodies to augment their existence. I think it is only proper that where technology has stepped in to enliven the human soul, the soul might step in to enliven the mechanical void.”
I nod, looking aghast at the pink captive within him. “We manufacture the parts that augment our lives. Where, pray tell, do you acquire the living flesh that beats within yours?”
He smiles, his woven metal skin pulling over the alloy framework of his face. A tiny drop of blood falls from a polished duct beneath his eye. It rolls down his cheek in stigmatic reverie.
“The Wizard provides.”
OK. That one gives me the shivers. Well done!
Well worth the wait!
Completely unrelated but I noticed that the copyright notice on the image is 2010, might want to get it updated.
Well, that is a mixture of sweet and creepy. I can’t help but wonder where the wizard got it.
Thanks everyone for reading!
@AdInf: Whoops! I will change that next time around.
@Danelle, Shaharw: Yes, it is a bit creepy. If Webcomics are actually just well organized Rorschach tests, then my would say something about romantically manic and creepy.
@Cap’nSludge: With the end of the semester in site, hopefully the waiting will take a back seat.
Somehow I fear that we’ll meet this wizard in Artiste’s future, and he will be sorry he asked
Yeah, it is creepy. I really like this one.
This is a very unique kind of webcomic, and I’m kicking myself for not having thought of it first! I enjoy these little glimpses into AG’s life, such as it is. Looking forward to seeing more!
I just discovered your webcomic, and I think it is fantastic! I love the way your short stories hint at so much more, and leave you just thinking about what could be. The format is brilliant, keep up the amazing work and I will come back eagerly awaiting more!
@Dave: Thanks for reading! I am thrilled that so many people like my off-brand vision of web comics.
@Jim: Thanks for the encouragement. I have big plans for the summer break. (More time = more posts). It should be fun and hopefully interesting.
Whoah! I just read “The Tinman” and that is all I needed to know.
I AM NOW OFFICIALLY YOUR FANBOY!