In nature, there’s a type of pine known for its rich resin. When injured, it secretes this resin to heal its wounds rapidly. Imagine if we humans could harness such robust self-healing power; amidst life’s challenges, we’d rebound even stronger, transforming and reshaping ourselves.
This resilience reminds us of the character in the Irish author’s book, “The Gadfly.” Betrayed and ridiculed, struggling in solitude, he finally relies on his inner strength to grow physically, mentally, and spiritually.
By the 1950s, The Gadfly became an iconic literary figure, inspiring many. His transformation from a privileged youth to a revolutionary fighter is particularly heartening. Often, it’s up to us whether pain makes or breaks us. “The Gadfly” shows that the power to heal is our most exceptional ability.
1. Different Lives, Similar Pains
In the 1930s, Italy was rife with internal and external conflicts. However, the turbulent era barely touched the Bolton family’s luxurious mansion, and especially not the life of young Arthur. Handsome, learned, and a favorite of the Pisa Theological Seminary’s dean, Arthur seemed to have it all, including childhood sweetheart, Jonma, and revolutionary friends. But every life, no matter how glamorous, has its hidden sorrows.
Despite his privileges, Arthur had his share of pains, from family disputes to suspicions from fellow revolutionaries. One mishap led to tragic consequences, ostracizing him. In despair, Arthur took a fateful step, reminding us that while everyone’s life is different, the pain we feel is universally human. How we address these pains can define our strength or weakness.
2. Life Heals Those Willing to Heal Themselves
Time flies, and 13 years have passed. The author, Vonic, paints the next chapter of Arthur’s story, much like a film director using cinematic techniques. However, the Arthur who re-enters our view is unrecognizable. He’s hunched over, with a limp from deformed legs. A scar, reminiscent of a centipede, stretches across his face, giving him a fierce appearance.
He’s now known by a new name – “Bullfly”. And while his background remains a bit of a mystery, we know he writes satirical articles for newspapers, is a powerful orator for radical causes, and has organized a few popular uprisings. He’s gained respect in the movement.
What events transformed Arthur into Bullfly?
After his suicide attempt, Arthur was rescued by a merchant ship bound for South America. In the cold, damp cabin of the ship, he suffered like a stowaway, enduring illnesses and hunger, coming close to death multiple times but always miraculously surviving. Though he faced immense hardships, these experiences only made him stronger.
Arthur decided to live and carve out a world for himself. A person’s healing power can be truly discovered when they refuse to give up, becoming their own savior.
From working temporary jobs in bars and casinos in ports from Chile to Lima, where he was often beaten by drunken gamblers, to wandering from place to place, participating in the Argentine War of Independence, acting as a translator for an Amazon expedition, being held captive, begging on streets, and even performing as a clown in a circus during his lowest moments – every scar and bruise only solidified his revolutionary spirit.
However battered by life’s storms, the determined Arthur refused to stay down. He rose above pain, bloodshed, and battles, developing a resilient spirit. He witnessed the suffering of common folk and recognized the dark sides of the clergy and the reactionary government. No longer the delicate and sensitive man of his past, he became impervious to threats and temptations.
By the time he stood among the crowds as “Bullfly”, he was the backbone of the movement, a spiritual leader for the revolutionaries.
As Mandela once said, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
In the vast tapestry of life, it’s all too easy to get beaten down, suppressed, and find ourselves trapped in misfortune. But as long as we don’t give up on ourselves and keep that fire burning, we can rise like Bullfly, becoming stronger with every setback and experiencing rebirth.
Because life truly heals those who are willing to heal themselves.
3. The Power of Healing, The Ultimate Strength of Adults
Often, what shapes a person isn’t external trials but the internal quest for salvation. After his return, Gadfly, with pen as his sword, criticized the government while tirelessly working to establish the “Short Blade Society,” planning an armed uprising. However, just when things were gearing up, an individual’s appearance disrupted Gadfly’s plans, plunging him into deep spiritual turmoil.
That individual was Montenelli, the newly appointed archbishop of the Roman Church, the elder who had brought countless joys to Gadfly’s childhood. Yet today, Montenelli represented the government and stood as a top adversary cloaked in religious garb. Determined to fight for liberation, Gadfly braced himself for a debate with Montenelli. But just as he was about to expose the church’s deceit, rumors spread that Gadfly was Montenelli’s illegitimate son. Montenelli then began to avoid him, and the powerful forces behind the church were preparing for a final blow against Gadfly.
Soon after, Gadfly was captured during an attempt to smuggle arms at the port and was secretly imprisoned. In jail, he stirred the guards and teased the interrogators, turning the cell into a playful arena. The authorities grew frustrated with him, and despite torturing him, they learned nothing about his organization. What baffled them further was Gadfly’s resilience; despite all odds, he remained optimistic and steadfast. They saw his physical scars but were blind to his robust inner healing power.
Throughout his journey, Gadfly had learned to endure pain, channel his anger, combat loneliness, and let go of regrets, transforming himself into an unbreakable force. They didn’t realize that an internally strong person cannot be defeated by anyone. Life throws hardships at everyone, and while the heavens may not save us, we have the power to save ourselves. Keeping calm amidst adversity, healing quietly, and rising from setbacks are the marks of a life champion.
In Summary
The passionate revolutionary novel, “Gadfly,” has inspired countless people since its first edition in 1897. Particularly poignant was Gadfly’s optimistic demeanor and fearless approach to death, like a clarion call echoing worldwide. Though the novel ends tragically with Gadfly’s execution, he continually tried to stand, showcasing his life-long healing power. Before his sacrifice, Gadfly penned a poem for his love, Qiong Ma, which always brings tears to the reader’s eyes. It reads, “Whether alive or dead, I will always be the joyful Gadfly.”
The poem reminds me of another quote by Yang Jiang: “Everyone in this world carries scars. Always believe that only you have the true power to heal yourself.” Times change, but the unpredictability of fate and life’s ups and downs remain constant. May we all, like Arthur, live joyfully by our strength, just like the “happy Gadfly.”
