Observations placeholder
Cocteau, Jean - Opium the Diary of his cure - The Island
Identifier
003876
Type of Spiritual Experience
Background
A description of the experience
Opium – the Diary of his cure – Jean Cocteau
Monsieur Teste [his doctor] would like to explore the desert island which I have inhabited ever since I was born and which I cannot leave now.
Sometimes he reaches the shore and wanders about, trying to overcome the deadly sleep that emanates from the outer trees....
If I, a man from the centre, were to venture out, I would be able to see him a long way off leaning up against a tree, resembling his column in the Opera House. But it frightens me to leave the middle of the island and then, what is the use of it? With his pride, he would never stoop to questioning the natives. What is more, I speak a different language. Further, I do not know this island well. I am used to it. I put up with it. I need a report from a tourist, from a Teste and a Teste does not penetrate into it.