VISUAL SCHEMA: THE MANTLE GLYPH

VISUAL SCHEMA: THE MANTLE GLYPH

A Symbolic Representation of the Poet’s Vocation

---

DESCRIPTION

This glyph depicts the poet’s mantle—a hybrid symbol of burden, vow, and flame. It is drawn in graphite and muted gold ink on textured vellum, balancing austerity and radiance.

At the center lies a flame enclosed by a circle, half-shadowed and half-illuminated. The flame represents the living Word—the spark of Logos—and the circle, the vow to carry it. The shading divides the circle in two: left in darkness (the burden of isolation), right in light (the gift of speech).

Surrounding the circle, a cloak-like outline curves outward, resembling both fabric and wings. Along its hem are faint inscriptions in a looping hand:

shame / pride / exile / inheritance / witness / fire.

These words are half-legible, as if written into the folds of the garment—visible only to those who study closely.

Above the mantle hovers a small open eye, drawn without lashes or pupil, only light within it—signifying the unblinking sight of the poet: perception without defense.

Below the mantle rests a simple horizontal line, etched deep, like the earth or threshold. Beneath it, one word:

POET.

---

MATERIALS AND STYLE

• Medium: Graphite, muted gold ink, and faint watercolor wash

• Palette: Ash gray, ochre-gold, pale rose, soft white

• Style: Minimal, Klee-inspired with manuscript detailing

• Texture: Fine scoring on vellum; wash pooling softly along folds

---

FUNCTION

The Mantle Glyph functions as both seal and mirror. It is a sigil of acknowledgment: to carry the flame and the weight of language. It may be used to consecrate any poetic act—writing, speech, or silence—as an extension of the vow.

To look upon it is to remember that art is not ornament, but witness.

---

INSCRIPTION

The poet’s burden is not performance but preservation.
To carry the Word is to be both fire and ash.