Why is it that Joachim is so fascinated by old Ridley, the inventor who lives next door? Are the mysterious rumours about the old man really true? Can he fly? Has he invented light? Is he mad . . .?
Whatever the truth, the destinies of man and boy are about to be eternally entwined . . .
This curious tale was inspired by the myth of Tithonus, a mortal youth, and Eos, immortal goddess of the dawn. When Tithonus fell in love with Eos, he asked the gods to grant him immortality so that he could be with Eos forever. The gods granted this wish, but neglected to give Tithonus eternal youth and so he was doomed to a fate worse than death - to grow old forever and ever.
Later, showing mercy, the gods turned him into a cicada, a creature that sheds it skin to renew itself . . . But just what this has to do with the story of Joachim and old Ridley, you will have to find out for yourself . . .
