Page 212 - SUMMARIES OF GIOVANNI BOCCACCIO’S DECAMEON : A Visionary Journey In 100 Stories And 100 Etchings By Petru Russu

Solomon advises Melisso and Giosefo

Two young men from distant cities undertake a journey to the court of
Solomon, the famously wise King of Egypt. Melisso, from Laiazzo, is afflicted
by loneliness and yearns to know how he might win the affection and

admiration of others. His companion, Giosefo from Antioch, is burdened by the
unruliness of his headstrong wife and seeks guidance on how to bring peace
and order into his troubled domestic life. Confident that Solomon’s wisdom
holds answers for both of their woes, they present their questions to the King.
Solomon listens patiently, considering the nature of each request.

To Melisso, whose heart aches for connection, Solomon offers an answer that
is both simple and profound: “Love others, and you shall be loved.” These

words echo with gentle wisdom, suggesting that the path to being cherished
begins with extending generosity, understanding, and affection to others first.

For Giosefo, Solomon offers no direct solution but rather sends him on a
curious errand: “Go to the Bridge of Geese.” The instruction is enigmatic, yet

Giosefo obeys. Upon reaching the bridge, he observes the chaotic spectacle of
geese quarrelling, flapping, and honking with wild abandon. The scene is noisy,
uncontrollable, and absurd, yet perfectly natural.

Giosefo returns with a humbler perspective. He realizes that trying to
dominate or reshape his wife’s temperament is not the path to peace. Instead,
he must learn coexistence, patience, and the acceptance of her individuality.

BOLD COLORS AND CHAOTIC
PATTERNS REFLECT THE Thus, both young men depart wiser. Melisso embraces a new philosophy
COMPLEXITY OF WISDOM of affection, building bonds through kindness rather than yearning. Giosefo
AND HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS, exchanges his frustration for understanding, learning to navigate his marriage
SYMBOLIZING THE FUTILITY OF
CONTROL THROUGH POETIC not by control but through respect. Solomon’s wisdom, gently delivered and
ABSTRACTION. keenly observed, transforms their paths in subtle yet lasting ways-
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