Arabian nights

"Preparatifs du mariage de la fille du cherif a Tangier" by Jose Tapiro y Boera (1830-1913) from the book Broderies Marocaines by Isabelle Denamur.

For the inaugural prompt at Writers Island, prose suggesting "an imaginery life:"

In an imaginery life, I am a singer with an astonishing vocal range like Umm Kalthoum. My voice sweeps high above the plantiff chords of the oud and the driving beat of the drum. The poignant lyrics make grown men weep with memories of times past and invoke intense emotions of longing and regret amongst all my listeners. Kings and presidents come to my performances and issue intriguing invitations.

But I choose to live simply in a small villa by the sea, where I spend my time practicing music and preparing for my next performance. Men come to call bearing dazzling jewels, delicate silks and extraordinary gifts, promising their undying passion. Yet my heart belongs to one with twinkling blue eyes in a foreign land. To lessen the pain of his absence, I take long walks by the sea, imagining our reunion. Such pent-up emotion is released in my performance each night. Then I return home to dream of his return.

In a heartbeat I'd trade it all - the fame, the jewels, the dinars - for a peaceful life singing only to the man I love. He is my destiny, long-ago written in the stars. And all the storm-tossed seas and strong winds swirling around us can't diminish that truth. Someday we will be together and my joyous heart will give thanks to the heavens. Until then, I sing for you.