The Deluge Essay Example

as needing assistance.

With his arms crossed, Colin stood by the fire and fixated on the flames. In an instant, he felt a presence and immediately looked up. Without any hesitation, he bent down to warm his hands over the fire.

Nathan declared, "Kendra has returned."

"Great," Colin responded, his gaze fixed on the fire.

Kendra moved towards the fire, turning around to fully embrace the warmth from every angle.

Colin inquired about my identity as the individual who was seated beneath the tree on the hill.

"I was the one who did it," I whispered. "I didn't realize anyone could see me. It's so dark."

Colin shook his head. "I only saw your shadow. You shouldn't be alone."

We remained silent, the fire crackling as our thoughts filled the stillness. Kendra suppressed her hunger and coldness, knowing she shouldn't complain. All of us shared the same experience - feeling cold, hungry, and exhausted - with no sign of relief in sight.

"Nathan suggested that Kendra and Colin go to the car and get some sleep while he keeps watch,"

When Nathan caught Colin's attention, Kendra observed that his agreement was mixed with a hint of suspicion.

"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. Kendra, you go ahead and use the car," said Colin. However, instead of going to the car as instructed, Colin chose to sit down on the ground and take in his surroundings. He directed his gaze towards the fire and then shifted it upwards towards the moon. Meanwhile, Kendra watched him intently as the dancing flames mirrored on his face. Eventually realizing she had been staring for too long, she swiftly averted her eyes. Nathan caught sight of this exchange and followed

suit by looking away.

She attempted to cozy up deeper into her sweatshirt, attempting to shrink herself in order to fit more of her body inside her clothing. She approached Colin's old BMW. "Let's go, Colin. It will be warmer inside here."

"Perhaps in a moment."

Kendra unlocked the car door and settled herself onto the backseat. She fluffed up the pillow she had taken from the living room while escaping and slouched down in the seat, pulling the jacket she had forgotten in the car over herself.

Six days had elapsed since that crisp autumn day when she had stepped onto the front porch in her socks and settled into a rocking chair. While savoring coffee and admiring the vibrant blue sky and foliage, she observed children pedaling their bikes to school and Mrs. Emerson chauffeuring her kids away. Colin, her father's teaching assistant, would often arrive in his car to deliver graded papers or enjoy a cup of coffee with her father before heading to the university for his class.

However, on that specific morning, her father had already departed early for errands and a meeting with the Dean. Determined to spend time with Colin, she persuaded him to prolong his stay. As she fetched him coffee, she made certain to greet him with a smile, fostering an inviting and cozy ambiance.

Colin's discomfort grew as he struggled to engage in small talk. After a few minutes, he placed his mug on the wicker table and stood up, informing Kendra that he had to leave due to classes and grading papers. He thanked her for the coffee with a forced smile.
Just as Colin was about to depart, a series

of loud booms shook the air. Smoke emerged from the distance where the university was located, around a mile away. Both of them turned their heads towards the noise in shock. Massive clouds of smoke billowed into the sky while thunder followed by another explosion could be heard. Kendra turned to Colin with fear-filled eyes and exclaimed that it must be some kind of explosion happening at the university.

People gathered on the street, including Katie Emerson, Mrs. Peavey, Nancy York, Lisa Spano, and five or six students from the apartment house two buildings away, where Nathan lived.

"What is it?" someone shouted.
"What happened?" Mrs. Peavey cried out. She stood in the street in her pink robe, holding a cup of coffee.

They all turned their attention to the thunder and smoke, observing the scene. In a sudden spontaneous action, Kendra hurried inside the house and located her running shoes. Swiftly, she slipped them on and returned outside. Acting on instinct, she started sprinting towards campus.

"Kendra, no!" Colin exclaimed as he ran to catch up with her and grabbed her arm. Startled, she halted.
"What are you doing?" He asked urgently, just as another explosion resounded nearby. Scanning their surroundings, he tried to identify the source of the chaos. "See? Don't go to campus! They're demolishing it!"
"But what if father . . .?" Kendra paused, meeting Colin's gaze. She could sense that he was pondering the same concern.

Kendra observed the fire station as the sound of sirens filled the air. Within her view, she saw the fire truck departing while a car that was parked on the street in front of the firehouse unexpectedly

detonated. The explosion caused debris to scatter through the air, striking both the firefighters and their truck, as well as several neighboring houses.

"Oh my God," she breathed, placing her hand on Colin for support. "Colin, Colin, Colin, oh my God. What is happening??" She gazed up at him, seeking reassurance about her father's well-being.

People were screaming with Mrs. Peavey, who still clutched her cup of coffee, standing in the street in shock with her eyes and mouth wide open. Eventually, she ran into her house and hastily slammed the door.

Colin escorted Kendra back to her house, with his arm around her. They arrived on the porch, where Nathan caught up with them. Upon hearing his footsteps, Kendra turned around. Colin stepped aside as Nathan assured him, "I'll take care of her."

Kendra had previously dated Nathan multiple times over the past two months, but their feelings were not mutual. Kendra noticed that Nathan saw this as his chance to be a hero. In response, Kendra reassured him by saying, "Nathan, I'm okay." She pushed her dark hair back and rolled up her sweatshirt sleeves before suggesting they go inside and watch TV.

They entered the cozy living room together and Kendra turned on the television. Holding the remote, she flipped through channels until she found a local station. Onscreen, Lucy Penkava, an attractive blonde newswoman wearing a pink suit, appeared with the words "Downtown bombing!!" next to her. Intrigued, they all leaned in and listened attentively.

"We have a helicopter on the way," Lucy said, asking Charlie for information.


The image shifted to a disheveled man with smudged face and red eyes.

"Lucy, there have been several bombings

in the vicinity of the university. We are unable to access the area, but I have been informed that both the library and the academic records building have been targeted. On my left, another powerful explosion occurred, causing Charlie's hair to be blown sideways. The camera was either dropped or fell, but it continued to record. The footage showed people running and chunks of cement collapsing. After a moment, Lucy reappeared."

"It appears as though Charlie is all right," Lucy said with panic on her face, scanning the studio. She then turned back to the camera, regaining her composure. "We have lost contact with that location," she unnecessarily explained. "However, it seems that another bomb has exploded. This would mean -" Someone handed her some papers and she took them, reading the top page. "Ladies and gentlemen, seven bombs were detonated downtown today, near the university. Our town has never witnessed a tragedy of this magnitude before." Nervously shifting in her chair, she continued. "The mayor, police chief, and fire chief have all requested me to announce that nobody will be permitted into that area." She paused briefly as she read to herself before speaking again. "No one. They are evacuating the area between Vine Street and Summerland Avenue." Kendra, Colin, and Nathan exchanged quick glances. "Between Vine and Summerland and between Pratt and Jefferson. Additionally, the university is also being evacuated. This is a grave situation, folks."

"That's our neighborhood," Kendra whispered. "That is where we all live." She looked at the men beside her who remained seated.

They heard a loudspeaker announcing that the Goldfield Volunteer Police Force had instructed them to evacuate the area. The

announcement advised them to pack a few belongings and leave immediately. Meanwhile, Kendra noticed someone walking up onto the porch, prompting her to go to the door.

"Miss, I'm Volunteer Mitchell Davis, and I've been assigned to visit every residence and ensure that the residents evacuate."

"Yes, um, we are..." She looked at Colin. He got up.

"We'll be taking my car. I've got a full tank of gas," he said, putting his hands in his pockets and smiling reassuringly at Davis. "Kendra, Nathan, go get a few things. I'll start up the car."
Colin and Nathan left the room as Kendra spoke up. "Wait, Mr. Davis," she said. "What about my father? He teaches at the university."
"The university was evacuated immediately, and he won't be coming here," Davis replied sympathetically.

Kendra finished her thought, wondering if she would even survive.

"Don't forget to lock up, and you should go to the high school." He gave a quick wave and left.

As Kendra hurried to her bedroom, she gathered her belongings. She packed a jacket, toothbrush, soap, and two clean towels in an overnight bag. Anticipating her needs, she only packed two pairs of clean underwear and socks. She also included the novel she was currently reading.

"Kendra, hurry! The police are waiting by Colin's car for us to leave!" Nathan shouted urgently from downstairs.

Kendra believed that she could manage the situation, so she promptly retrieved jeans and a t-shirt from her closet and hastily packed them in a bag. She then swiftly obtained her purse and rushed downstairs. Upon reaching the door, Nathan was already there, carrying a small bag, a laptop computer, and his cellphone.

"Oh!" she exclaimed,

grabbing a piece of paper and a pen. Quickly, she composed a note for her father, starting with "Dear Dad." She informed him that she had to leave, mentioning that she was with Nathan and Colin in C's car. To express her affection, she drew a large heart and placed an R inside it. Leaving the note on the hall table, she snatched a pillow from the sofa, took her keys, and joined Nathan outside,

making sure to lock the door behind her.

Over the past six days, there have been a series of bomb incidents resulting in significant destruction. Despite police efforts, not all of the bombs could be found. Some were cleverly hidden among the flower beds at the university. Dogs managed to detect two of them but unfortunately, they exploded when someone attempted to uncover them. As a result, various buildings including the library, administration building, humanities building, music studios, theater, and bookstore were completely obliterated. Moreover, eight other bookstores in town along with three theaters and seven churches suffered a similar fate.

In addition to these attacks on buildings, a car bomb was detonated in front of police headquarters; fortunately causing only minimal damage. However, this explosion led to the destruction of three fire stations as well as six fire trucks. Numerous residences throughout the town experienced varying degrees of damage including individual homes and apartment buildings.

The impact wasn't limited to just buildings and houses; every Greek house on campus also sustained some form of damage from these bombings. To add further devastation, eleven professors who specialized in English, music, art drama or humanities had their homes specifically targeted and destroyed.

Kendra's father, who

taught English literature, was unsure if her house was still standing or if he was still alive.

The toll on humans was much higher, with more than one hundred casualties on campus. This included twenty-eight university faculty and staff who were either deceased or unaccounted for. There were also fatalities among children and pets.

Kendra quietly prayed for her father and then gazed at the full moon. She wondered if her father was also looking at the moon right now and attempted to transmit her thoughts to him.

Initially, they were relocated to the gymnasium of a nearby high school during the evacuation. However, due to safety concerns, an alternative option was suggested. It was proposed that individuals who were able should relocate to the state park, approximately twelve miles from town. This option provided a safer environment with fewer buildings where people could seek refuge in their vehicles or tents. The restroom facilities were closely supervised and park personnel took responsibility for maintaining security measures and addressing any issues that arose.

The regular food delivery by the Red Cross and National Guard did not take place today due to a rumor of two supply trucks exploding on the highway. Consequently, they had to wait for additional armed guards and bomb detectors before receiving any food.

Colin sat in the car, leaning against the passenger door. Kendra retrieved Nathan's soft overnight bag from the floor of the back seat and handed it to Colin. He placed it behind him as a cushion and softly thanked Kendra. Afterwards, he closed his eyes.

"Shall we attempt the radio?" she inquired. They had been staying connected with "the outside" by tuning in to the

radio for a few minutes each day, by calling friends in nearby towns using Nathan's cell phone, by going online via Nathan's laptop and cell phone, and, naturally, through updates from the park grapevine. Interestingly, though, the majority of the small groups of individuals who had arrived at the park kept to themselves, and much of the information circulating through word of mouth was not entirely reliable.

From accessing the Internet through Nathans laptop, they discovered a declaration from a group that claimed responsibility for the bombings. The bombers identified themselves as a highly organized network of "technonerds" known as Art Is Dead, or AID. AID had successfully infiltrated science, math, and computer departments in universities worldwide, persuading students and professors that the arts were detrimental to society. They believed that the arts, particularly drama and visual art, diverted funds from the sciences and caused societal harm.

The bombings took place on a designated day, targeting at least one campus in every state of the United States and one in each country globally. The attacks heavily damaged the fine arts departments of these schools, while some cities also saw museums being targeted. Within the group of bombers, there was a debate about whether museums should be spared or completely destroyed. Some argued that museums should serve as a reminder of the wastefulness of intelligence and resources spent on art, while others believed that all forms of art and their symbolism should be eradicated.

However, AID's primary objective was focused on education. They were determined to persuade politicians, benefactors, and administrators that education should solely prioritize the sciences and exclude other disciplines.

Another point of contention within AID was the

interpretation of the term "art." Although everyone agreed that drama, visual art, and photography were not worthy of time, energy, and money, there was debate about whether writing and literature fell into the same category. While AID acknowledged the importance of writing in scientific fields, certain members argued for clear guidelines to determine when writing crossed into the realm of art. All members agreed that writing intended for entertainment and authors specializing in entertainment should be eliminated. Instead, those who spent their time writing novels, short stories, and poetry should be "reprogrammed" to produce technical manuals and scientific reports. Interestingly, AID seemed to have a particular disdain for poetry.

The bombing commenced on any Internet server-equipped building that had not been protected against terrorism or had been infiltrated, either physically or via modem. Somehow, these buildings had been reformatted or bypassed to ensure normal computer transmission continued unhindered. After six days of the siege, AID members were strategically positioned throughout the massive global network. With few exceptions, AID now had control over the Internet, World Wide Web, and every educational institution's network worldwide. AID safeguarded major corporations such as Microsoft and NASA, with minimal issues as many of their employees were either AID members or sympathizers. Controlling parts of the government's network was possible because some government workers supported the cause.

AID threatened the destruction of artwork and literature in the extensive online library. However, it was rumored they were currently denying access to those seeking that information. Nathan conducted experiments confirming this rumor.

Nathan observed a reduction in his ability to access different parts of the Internet, with the number dwindling each day. Logging in now greeted

him with a lengthy and often poorly written message from AID.

During the past five days, Kendra, Colin, and Nathan all acquired new knowledge. In this time period, Nathan successfully charged his cell phone and laptop using the cigarette lighter in their BMW. They also established a routine of listening to the news on the radio for approximately 15 minutes three times a day. On the second day of their ordeal, Nathan urged Colin to leave the park and drive elsewhere, though they were uncertain about their destination. Nathan reached out to his parents who resided two hours away and they offered them shelter while advising caution.

Despite experiencing frequent and unpredictable bombings during the initial three days, they chose to stay instead of relocating. The fourth day only had one bombing nearby but Kendra convinced Nathan that it was still safer for them to remain where they were. While it may have been selfish on her part, she desired to be close to her father.

The fifth and sixth days passed relatively peacefully unless there were rumors about supply trucks which might hold some truth. It was widely believed that the terrorists were now discreetly working towards global control through activities involving keyboards and modems.

Colin opened the car window slightly and lit a cigarette, suggesting that they listen to the news since it was 11 o'clock. He switched on the radio and called out to Nathan to inform him. Nathan approached the car and joined Colin in the front seat.

"We are continuously reporting on the ongoing global terrorist attack by AID, also known as Art is Dead. The siege has been going on for six days. Warren

Marcus, the spokesperson for AID, released a statement:
'Greetings from the members of AID. We want to assure citizens worldwide that our intentions aim to benefit everyone's well-being. It is important to acknowledge that our actions serve humanity's best interest. Now is the time for unity in advancing mankind's betterment by joining forces with AID.'
According to AID, art and artists no longer have a place in this world. Their goal isn't to destroy artistic creators but rather encourage them to use their talents for scientific progress. Artists who support AID will be asked to redirect their skills towards creating graphs, charts, and technical manuals. Similarly, writers currently involved in producing fictional works can support us and contribute to scientific reports, software programs, and technical manuals after undergoing a brief period of retraining. AID does not see any value in the work of poets and suggests employing individuals involved in poetry as child care workers or janitors. The role envisioned for musicians by AID is still under consideration due to its challenging nature given personal attachment and enjoyment derived from music. Additionally, there is a belief that exceptional music is based on scientific and mathematical principles.""We hope to gain further support for this idea," stated Colin. He happily announced the successful completion of Phase I of their plan. Tomorrow morning, those who were evacuated can return home, and he assured them that if they cooperate, no harm will come to them.

"Tomorrow marks the 7th day since we started our mission," Colin continued. "However, don't be fooled into thinking it'll be a day of rest for us." He emphasized that while they may

not be seen, they will work silently behind their computer screens to shape people's perception of the world.

Furthermore, AID will govern phone connections, control cable TV, have authority over airline flights, and exert influence over major utilities. Colin added that the list goes on; however, he believed Kendra understood the implications.

Colin turned off the radio and exchanged glances with Nathan before facing Kendra. Eagerly she asked him: "Well?"

"Let's pack up and go home," Nathan stated. He exited the car and approached the fire to collect the remaining few belongings.

Colin took his place behind the wheel and ignited the car's engine. Nathan entered from the opposite side as the passenger.

"Alright, Colin, it's time to get moving!"

Upon reaching the park's exit, the attendant stationed in his booth stepped out. Colin halted the car and rolled down his window.

"Did you hear? We can leave!"
"Tomorrow," the ranger said, sighing.
"We need to go now."
The ranger looked at them and expressed his concern. "But we're not prepared to let you go. If you go, everyone will want to go."
"Well, we're leaving," Colin said as he stared angrily at the ranger. The man sighed heavily once more before opening the gate. "Good luck," he said grimly.

Nathan laughed as Colin steered onto the main road, making their way back to Goldfield. The road appeared empty.

"Do you have any thoughts? What is your plan? Will you consent to joining them?" Kendra inquired.

"Colin asked if we have a choice."

The response from Nathan was that they truly don't and moreover, he tends to concur.

Kendra asked Colin if he was willing to go along with their plans, despite his desire to become an English professor. Colin replied

that he could still teach grammar and other subjects. Kendra tried to see his face to confirm if he was unsettled. Nathan chimed in saying that he could still teach first grade, including math, science, language, and computers. He then mentioned that going to medical school should also be acceptable.

Kendras mind was overwhelmed with the consequences of the current events and the events that were yet to come.

"Green Eggs and Ham," she murmured softly.

Nathan chuckled and exclaimed, "What?"

"And The Secret Garden. Come on, guys. Monet! Dickens! Garcia-Marquez, Colin. You love Garcia-Marquez."

"And Dostoevsky. And T.S. Eliot." He said sadly. "Prufrock."

"Nathan, what about you? What are you going to miss?" Kendra asked softly.

"Come on, guys. You can still read those books."
"I'm not so sure," Colin said. Kendra may be right."
"We'll never see a play again. Nathan, no more Jim Carrey movies! No more Beverly Hills Cop!"
"I guess you're right." Nathan frowned, then shrugged. "Oh well, it'll give me more time to concentrate on medicine. That's good, isn't it?"

Colin added that he wouldn't have to worry about the novel he always wanted to write.

"I won't have to worry about my students getting paint on their clothes," Kendra said with a sour tone. She leaned back in her seat, crossed her arms, and observed as they entered the outskirts of Goldfield. Nobody uttered a word while passing the devastated churches. The library was reduced to a heap of rubble. Colin then turned onto Kendra's street.

"Please come in with me," she said, as they reached her dimly lit house. Slowly approaching the porch, she spotted a seemingly bright light coming from the kitchen.

Kendra exclaimed, "Dad!" as she found her

key and used it to unlock the door. Hurriedly, she opened the door and made her way through the house to the kitchen. She hardly noticed that the bookshelves, once filled with books, were now empty.

The kitchen was also vacant. The faint sounds of Bach could be heard emanating from the basement. Kendra swiftly opened the basement door and descended downstairs, with Colin and Nathan closely trailing behind her.

In the basement corner, an old easy chair, a table, and a lamp were placed by her father years ago. He frequently visited the basement to read.

"Daddy!" she exclaimed, rushing towards him and immediately dropping to her knees by his side.

Her father, who appeared thin and haggard like Colin and Nathan, embraced her. He held up a thick book, identified as Shakespeare, and looked much older than his 54 years. Kendra's father, with tears in his eyes, quietly said her name and expressed his relief that they had all returned safely. Colin and Nathan greeted him by shaking his hand. Through her tears, Kendra asked softly if he had survived the bombing because she had initially believed he was dead.

"I had breakfast with the Dean at a diner on Adams Road. We spent the majority of that initial day there, even though I was aware that you had been evacuated and that the phones at the diner were not functioning. Nonetheless, I believed in your safety." He gently caressed her face. "I am extremely grateful for being able to see you again."

"What message are you attempting to convey, father?" she inquired.

He addressed his daughter, expressing his inability to exist in this world. He held her

hand tightly and drank from the glass on the nearby table. He believed that the younger generation could adapt, but doubted their passion for art, music, and literature, which he cherished deeply. He acknowledged Jim Wright's suggestion to fight against a certain impending situation but asserted his own knowledge of its inevitability over a long period of time. He retrieved a notebook from the floor, containing a treatise on why this situation should not be allowed to happen as it would ultimately result in destruction. He resented the opposition's desire to suppress art creation, emphasizing that such suppression would lead to the demise of their spirits and souls. He asked all his loved ones to promise him that they would read the treatise. As he took another sip from his glass, Kendra stared at it and abruptly took control.

Startled and terrified, she turned to Colin and urgently implored him to call emergency services.

Her father had a sad smile on his face. He questioned, "Kendra, do you truly believe they will bother sending an ambulance to the residence of a literature professor? Don't you understand they now have control over everything?" With his hand trembling, he covered his eyes and continued, "Robert Strobridge. Ellen Morris. Glenn Goldberg. And I myself. We have all written treatises, and we have all concluded that this is the end."

The three young individuals knelt beside the dying man. Kendra grasped both of his hands, while Colin placed his hand on the man's knee. Nathan's hand rested gently on the man's shoulder.

Kendra whispered softly in her father's ear, expressing her love for him repeatedly. As she did so, her father's body

relaxed, causing the book he held on his lap to fall onto the floor.

Category: English