× M 40
40 has been a mark of time and a symbol for centuries within the myths, literature, and story-telling of many cultures— often a time of trial and tribulation endured because of hope for a better future. It has often been only a figurative measurement of time. Some see it as a cycle of the world or the rhythm of cyclic repetitions of the Universe.
The figure with the numeral 40 above is the 13th letter of the Hebrew alphabet called Mem. It also represents 40 and Water. In the ancient script, the pictograph for Mem was drawn as a wavy line ”“ ”“ indicating waves of water and is evident in the Latin M. When written at the end of a word, it takes the final form ”“ × ”“ which is more square, and smooth like calm water.
In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre is 40 years old. The 40th MayDay Parade and Pageant will be next year.
In the Heart of the Beast has done exceptional dramatic and educational work for 30 years about the significance of water to each individual and to the world. The need for hard work “in the heart of the beast,” yes, even trial and tribulation, becomes obvious. It is the focus on hope for “calming the water” in the future that sustains the work and the celebration.
