#esfahan

The interior of the dome of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Esfahan, Iran. A radiating pattern draws the eye to the centre, conveying a sense of unity. Credit: Photo by Faruk Kaymak on Unsplas

Dear Futilities Anon,

I wanted to answer your beautiful submission immediately after receiving it, even if it is scandalously late, in here.

As I think both of us know, the entire Persian communication network has been brutally severed by the regime, which effectively means complete isolation from the outside world. Will this ominous silence be followed by at least a silver lining? I can only offer you my deepest hope, dear Anon. Alas, I also expect more dreadful - officially sanctioned - news as of today, Wednesday, when the first wave of public executions is scheduled to start.

In such uncertain hours and when things become unbearable to watch or even think of, I sometimes feel the urge to take refuge in moments and places like this wonderful fresco from the Chehel Sotoun palace:

Because, Anon, despite and beyond this absolute horror and ugliness, you and me know that Dostoevsky was probably right: Beauty will, eventually, save the world.

Thank you for your kindness. I am undeserving, for unlike you, I am just one of those friendly passing shadows that were, once upon a time, astounded by the self-evident, endless beauty Persia is.

Iran, portrait of two women standing on Eşfahān sidewalk, between 1934 and 1969