

One of the oldest questions humans ask themselves is whether invisible
helpers guide them during their hours of need.
FLOATING TRICKSTERS
The Faerie Villages of Central Park
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SYNOPSIS
When John Jacob Astor’s fur empire and the construction of the Erie Canal caused an economic growth spurt that would transform New York City into the financial capital of the world, the faerie community sensed the great challenge that lay ahead. Faerie folk, who had lived alongside the Lenape tribe for over three thousand years, went to work visiting the dreams of the city’s elite. They planted seeds in the collective consciousness that would grow into the creation of a sprawling central park in the middle of the city. They were wise enough to know that without an oasis of natural beauty, within the heart of a city that would soon overflow with commerce, humans would suffer severe consequences.
They also knew that they would need a suitable home where they would be insulated from the churning mental and physical machinations of the city, a place where they could retreat at the end of a long day of guiding and educating humans. The faerie elders chose locations and rendered designs for ten archetypal faerie villages before construction of the park had even begun. Prior to that time, the faerie folk lived in hidden enclaves scattered around the island's countryside. When they saw the Commissioners' Plan of 1811, with its imposing street grid and barely an acre set aside for natural preservation, they knew they must act. As is often the case, the faeries got their way, and in 1857, construction of the park began. It would take another twenty years to complete, but the faeries did not mind. They took great pleasure in finding countless ways to influence the park’s architects, ensuring that certain features were included, which pleased them.
Our story begins on a snow-drenched winter day when a young boy and a young girl, living on opposite sides of the park, experience their first encounter with the little people. The boy, whose name is Henry Moore, inspires his father to take him for a sleigh ride through the park when a young faerie named Undine decides to tag along for the ride. The girl, Ann Flavian, was taking a brusque walk with her Irish nanny, Mary Kate, when she noticed Undine riding on Henry’s knee as they passed. We then follow Undine to Faerie School, where his classmates are busy summarizing the history lessons they have learned during previous weeks. One student recalls the time faeries in Vermont inspired Ethan Allen to take Fort Ticonderoga during the early days of the revolution. Undine tells the story of Portuguese sylphs guiding Lord Nelson to a collection of maps that would help him defeat Napoleon.
Months later, on a warm spring day, we witness: the annual international faerie summit held on the roof of Belvedere Castle, several faerie interventions in the surrounding city, and a faerie elder influencing the dream life of one of New York's most influential matrons. At the end of the day, the faeries gather around the Lake to sip tea, play music, and dance in celebration of the setting sun. They are wise enough to know that regardless of what occurs in the human world, it is vital that they keep their spirits high and their trust of life intact. They understand and accept that humans are an autonomous species, free to follow or ignore the signs they receive from their invisible friends, come what may.
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