“Chasing The Dragon’s Tail” (只见龙首不见龙尾)

Artspiration:

People now talk about the travails of globalisation, but these are not contemporary issues. The massive opium trade that plagued China’s coffers and destroyed the lives of addicts is a tragic side-effect of the pockets it padded. As port cities opened up and cargo ships sailed in from distant lands, it is worth remembering that not all that glitters is gold. In Chasing the Dragon’s Tail, the empty opium bed and the forlorn dog that sits under it waiting in vain for a master that is no longer himself epitomizes the darkness that sometimes comes with the shower of silver.

We are all familiar with the calm before the storm. The sweet sensation of release just before all hell breaks loose. In the midst of chaos, what do we turn to? 1930s Shanghai at the height of glamorous fortune was not immune to the darkness that stalks the corners of our laughing glee. Stroking the dragon, so to speak, was one way to ease the terror of not knowing, and the pain of never being able to find out. Smooth, calming, mystical tendrils could gently massage away any tension. Caution is needed, however. Just as man’s best friend can give in to its ravenous appetite – so the dragon could take complete control, tearing at your entire being like a rabid animal. It takes special care and domination to tame the dragon back into being the warm puppy that brings instant solace and comfort. island6 presents Chasing the Dragon’s Tail, and not a moment too soon to escort the 2012 Dragon in.

Blurb credit: Lelia Pollett

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