The Gift of Words (standard:non fiction, 647 words)
Author: kira pirofski	Added: Oct 14 2003	Views/Reads: 3397/4	Story vote: 0.00 (0 votes)
He was fast on his feet, and quick with his wit....Can you guess which fictional character I am refering to?

The Gift of Words 

Cyrano de Bergerac est un homme extroidinerre.  Mai Oui, il et un bonne
“role model” pour les hommes et les femmes.   Loosely translated from 
French to English, this means that Cyrano de Bergerac, written in 1898 
by French author Edmond Rostand, is an extraordinary man who is a role 
model for men and women. 

His most exemplar quality, which makes him a role model, is his ability
to use words.  He sculpts words, like that unknown surgeon who Cyrano 
would not dare let touch his nose would.  Cyrano words display wit, 
romance, pride and bravery. His unique way with words gets him into 
assorted trouble with duelers, and those who challenge his physical 
appearance.  In the first act Cyrano lashes out against a meddler who 
mocks his nose.  Cyrano responds, 

My nose! You pug, you knob, you button-head, Know that I glory in this
nose of mine, For a great nose indicates a great man- Genial, 
courteous, intellectual, Virile, courageous-as I am- and such As 
you-poor wretch-will near dare to be Even in imagination. For that 
face- That blank, inglorious concavity which my right hand finds. Upon 
unlashing his tongue at the meddler, Cyrano proceeds to punch him. Most 
likely in the nose. 

Our hero uses words to woo Roxanne for Christian.  Cyrano is greatly in
love with Roxane.  Yet Cyrano feels that, due to his large nose, she 
can never love him. Thus, just to get close to her, and to do a good 
deed for his friend Christian, Cyrano speaks and writes for Christian.  
One moonlit night, Cyrano speaks to Roxane from a balcony, using the 
voice of Christian.  His words display his great tenderness and 
intellect. And what is a kiss, when all is done? A promise given under 
seal-a vow Taken before the shrine of memory- A signature 
acknowledged-a rosy dot Over the i of Loving-a secret whispered To 
listening lips apart-a moment made Immortal, with a rush of wings 
unseen- A sacrament of blossom, a new song Sung by two hearts to an old 
simple tune- The ring of one horizon around two souls Together, all 
alone! The use of words works, and Roxanne falls in love with 
Christian; she never suspects that in fact Cyrano is the one who is 
both speaking and writing for him. 

Cyrano speaks to protect his pride and show his bravery.  When
challenged by Le Bret, he darts back: Oh, not that ever! No, That would 
be too grotesque-tears trickling down All the long way along this nose 
of mine? I will not so profane the dignity Of Sorrow. Never any tears 
for me! Why, there is nothing more sublime than tears, Nothing!- Shall 
I make them ridiculous In my poor person? 

No other character in the play, Roxanne, Christian, Comte de Guiche,
Valvet, Lingered, or Range uses words in as witty, romantic, proud, and 
brave fashion as Cyrano.  Like the white plume he wears, his words can 
be sharp at one end, or soft and romantic at the other.  In the middle, 
they can be steel tough and proud.  Cyrano is unique in his use of 
words.  His skill at communication is unmatched. 

Communication between one individual and another is the key to life. 
Cyrano has this key; he uses to unlock his heart to all.  In this great 
heart lie wit, romance, courage, and tragedy.   I aspire to have this 
key, it would open doors, allow me to relate to peers, teachers, 
professors, all whom I come in contact with.   With this key, I could 
have the ability to make my life full, alive, vibrant, and varied.  The 
downside of having a way with words is that, like Cyrano, it can get 
you in trouble. Cyrano is forced into duels, fights, and fractious 
situations because of his sharp tongue.  Still, a role model should be 
up for controversy and strife. 


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