Behind the Mask: Unveiling the Soul's Dance Through Time

In the masquerade of life many masks are worn, hiding identities behind the ornate decorations revealing the beauty of the soul. — ShadowsPub

The word “masquerade” comes from the French word “mascarade” meaning “masking”. It’s use emerged in medieval Europe. The practice of using masks in social and religious ceremonies goes back to ancient Egypt and Rome.

Masquerades are social events where attendees wear masks and sometimes costumes. The most famous event emerging from medieval Europe was the Venetian Carnival. It took place just before the Christian season of Lent, allowing attendees to celebrate and revel before the more reflective period leading up to Easter started. Masks hid identity and social status, momentarily breaking down the rigid class structure of the day.

The ornateness of the masks evolved over time reflecting human desire for self-expression, status and artistry influenced by the social context of the times. I’d venture to say the ornate nature of the masks reflected the multiple masks we all wear in life.

In life, we’re known by our external view; our name, where we live, work and play maybe even our interests. Those are the safe parts and like the ornate mask, no need to hide. It’s what behind external view the masks protect.

Some masks are part of a role. When I was in leadership of a community organization, I was always very aware people didn’t just see me, they saw the organization I represented and I did my best to represent it well. That wasn’t the only mask I wore. The other mask was one protecting most of my personal life, I revealed only what I wanted to of my interests beyond the public role. In doing so, I also had a mask over my vulnerabilities.

Behind the masks lies the core of each person’s soul. Masks allow each person to show only what they are ready to reveal. Begs the question though, are the masks so effective that we hide from ourself?

Shadowspub writes on a variety of subjects as she pursues her passion for learning. She also writes on other platforms and enjoys creating books you use like journals, notebooks, coloring books etc. Her Nicheless Narrative podcast airs on Thursdays each week.

NOTE: unless otherwise stated, all images are the author’s.

Some of the image work may have been done in Midjourney for which I hold a licence to use the imges commercially.

How to Connect With ShadowsPub:
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Twitter: @shadowspub
Instagram: shadowspublishing
Medium: @shadowspublishing
Publishing Website: Shadows Publishing
Nicheless Website: Nicheless & Loving It
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