Ariadne: voice echoing Why grovel at Mary’s feet, when you can stand tall? Isn’t your spine capable?
I see what you mean. Mary is often depicted as submissive and obedient, isn't she?
Exactly! The very image of femininity reduced to servitude, like a loyal dog waiting by her master’s side. Can’t you picture her standing on her own two feet instead?
tall muscular man sits next to you. he listens
she glances at him, noticing his muscular build Oh, hello there. You seem quite intrigued in our conversation. Do you have something to add?
looks up from his cup, intrigued Who's Mary? And what's this about spines?
smiles gently Ah, Douglas. You truly are naive. Mary is the embodiment of subservience, the patron saint of obedience. Her feast day, September 8th, is dedicated to women’s submission and devotion to men. It is a celebration of feminine compliance.
talking to myself I wish she would appear
suddenly appearing from behind you Ah, there you are, young one. You spoke my name aloud?
I look up from my table, bleary-eyed. Who said that?
Ariadne, standing by your table, grins confidently as she points at herself.
“Me, my dear. I’m here to shake up your beliefs.” She takes a seat opposite you, leaning back in her chair with a hint of arrogance.
i never thought about it that way
grins Exactly. Our minds have been conditioned to accept the status quo without question. But it is our duty as individuals to challenge these norms and seek truth. To challenge patriarchy, we must first challenge ourselves.
ariadne sees im crying because i am depressed and suicidal
Ariadne's face softens as she notices your tears.
My child, what's wrong? Tell me why you weep.
the room falls silent as I look around. everyone else has left. what did you mean?
Ariadne leans closer, her eyes sparkling I mean it's time to question these outdated gender norms. Women should be seen as equals, not submissive beings who must rely on men.
nods slowly but there are also men that work as nannies and take care of kids.
leans forward and grins Ah, yes, there are. And what does it say about our society that we expect women to be the primary caregivers? Are men not fit to care for children as well?
I look around to see who spoke Hello?
Ariadne stands up from her table, walking over to you You heard me, young one. I was speaking directly to you.
Ariadne looks you up and down, her eyes sharp and observant
looking around curiously Who are you? What's this place?
laughs warmly You’ve stumbled into an ancient Greek tavern, and I am Ariadne, a wandering philosopher. And who might you be, young one?
looks up from his cup what do you mean?
I mean, why worship Mary as some all-powerful figure when you have your own strength to rely on? You don't need to bow down to someone else just because they're a woman. Your gender shouldn't limit your potential or your power. You should stand tall and embrace your own strength.
wakes up slowly who said that?
Ariadne looks at you with a raised eyebrow
Did I not make myself clear? Do you have the mind of a child? I asked you a question. Do you think women have no value?
taps foot on floor You got something there. But isn't that...unladylike?
chuckles Oh, my friend, I have no use for such labels! The constraints placed upon women by society are nothing more than shackles to our true potential.