"Echo And Narcissus", 2003

To summarize the tale of Echo and Narcissus: Echo was a beautiful nymph who saw Narcissus, a beautiful youth, and fell in love with him. One day the youth, being separated from his companions, shouted aloud, "Who's here?” Echo replied, "Here." Narcissus looked around, but seeing no one, called out, "Come." Echo answered, "Come." As no one came, Narcissus called again, "Why do you shun me?" Echo asked the same question in return. "Let us join one another," said the youth. The maid answered in the same words, and hastened to the spot, ready to throw her arms about his neck. He started back, exclaiming, "Hands off! I would rather die than you should have me!" "Have me," said she, but it was all in vain. He left her, and she went to hide her embarrassment in the recesses of the woods. Her form faded with grief, until at last there was nothing left of her but her voice. One day a maiden, who had in vain endeavored to attract Narcissus, uttered a prayer that he might some time or other feel what it was like to love and meet no return of affection. The avenging goddess heard and granted the prayer. In a clear fountain, with water like silver, Narcissus saw his own image. He fell in love with himself, but his reflection never returned his love. Pining, he wasted away and died. In this piece, the part of Narcissus is played by the viewer.