A classic mountain nymph straight out of classical mythology…
I have written before about my fascination with nymphs, https://theracerx.com/2012/12/27/i-love-nymphs/, not only the imaginary kind found in Greek mythology, but also the real kind in our present day world. Nymphs tend to reappear in our world with the flowering of spring. Although we are still dealing with the last vengeful blows of a recalcitrant winter, spring will come, as sure as the earth tilts closer to the sun and the days grow longer and warmer. And with spring so come the nymphs.
There are different types of nymphs, each one associated with a particular quality of nature. Today’s nymph is a mountain nymph (otherwise known as a Oread in Greek mythology). I am not sure where this photo was taken, but when I first saw it I thought either of Machu Picchu in Peru or somewhere in the Alps. I really do not know. Whatever the case, I enjoy the brilliant contrast between the rocky fastness of the background and the soft, nubile nymph in the foreground (this contrast between a misty and rocky, mountainous background and a soft, feminine beauty in the foreground reminds me of a Leonardo painting). She seems delicately and precariously balanced on a few stones. At first we may fear for her safety; but then we realize she is mountain nymph, and in her immortality she cannot be harmed. She might even a devotee of the stern, virginal goddess Artemis. If that is the case, it is best to stay away from her, for any man cavorting with one of Artemis’s nymphs can only lead to destruction for an individual of such insouciance.
Madonna of the Yarnwinder, by Leonardo. May not be painted wholly by Leonardo, but I still love the colors and haunting beauty of this painting. The rocky background is a key feature of many of Leonardo’s paintings.
One of my favorite pastimes used to be mountain climbing. Now, unfortunately with a heart condition, I am unable to climb anymore; but in my climbing days I always hoped to come across a mysterious and allusive mountain nymph such as this one. I never did, alas, but this photo lets me know that in the great, awesome grandeur of mountainous regions, the delightful world of the nymphs still lives on. At least I can continue to find poetic inspiration in the existence of such lovely and delightful creatures.
The Chase 
Revo Luzione said:
Great post. Needed this today. Mountain nymphs are my favorite, perhaps because of their rarity in nature, the elusiveness you mentioned.
Who knows, maybe you can still climb? I’d get a second opinion before giving up a cherished activity for a medical reason that may or may not be bogus.
Southern Man said:
Climb anyway, exercise is good for your heart. The mountain nymphs await!
Racer X said:
Revo and Southern Man,
Thanks for the comments and the encouragement on climbing. I would love to climb again, but unfortunately after having had a heart attack which left my heart with some permanent damage, climbing would be too strenuous and too risky, not to mention the difficulty with lower oxygen up in the mountains. It is a sad loss for me, but at least I have the memories of some nice adventures mountain climbing. I exercise now in other ways, in a more controlled environment.
I can still appreciate the beauty of mountain nymphs though….
Rebekah said:
Awww…so sad 😦 Hope your recovery is still going well.
Racer X said:
Rebekah,
Thanks….the recovery is going well!