The following is a partial copy of the simple alphabet or “cordella”—the symbols etched into the cliff walls in the time of the Speakers and rediscovered at the time of the Tellers. Fingering the outlines of these symbols gave forth the appropriate sound values. These were discovered in the order given here. Others exist in different groupings; some still unknown to Window’s people.

Another partially deciphered Sumari script suggests that the word cordella rather than alphabet is used to break up usual conceptions connected with the word alphabet, while conveying an idea of symbols closely related, upon which alphabets are based. Seen in this way, there would be cordellas beneath the sensations of hearing, smelling, seeing, and so forth. The fragment further implies that the skin has its own alphabet.

Since the Tellers have translated so few of the Speakers’ manuscripts and records, only hints of their significance can be given here. The process of translation and discovery continues, of course, and publication of further songs and records will take place as the work continues.

Because the Sumari philosophy includes such a rich mixture of theory and practical understanding, the appendix will close with a translation of one of the first songs learned by Ma-ah in her early instruction as a student. The advice is pertinent in any “time.”

THE GODS’ GIFTS

Those who are given gifts by the

gods must use them.

Polish your gifts in the morning,

Shine them with yearning,

Pluck them from the trembling
tree of creation.

Tenderly tuck them in the basket
of your loving endeavor.

Use them or they will turn from
fruits into stones that are heavy.

The fruits of the gods are juicy
and nutritious.

Ignore them and they turn into
teeth that bite you.

The gods’ gifts are worth more
than night or morning.

Ignore them and night and
morning pass away.

The pit of your knowing is buried
in the gods’ fruits within
your being,

Spit out the pit and you are lost.

The gods’ gifts are the yellow
piths that glue together
The fruity fibers of your knowing.

Use them or your parts fall away.

Used, the gods’ gifts are abundant
and increasing.

They grow as they are consumed.

Shake the branches of creation,

And the gods’ gifts fall into your
lap, resplendent.

Turn your back and the tree withers

And the wind carries the seed away.

Use the gods’ gifts, then, with
great abandon.

They are your nourishment.

They are the fruits that bloom
in dreams’ darkness.

They are the light that falls out of chaos.

They are the fruit of the tree
that is unknown

But always present.

They are the fruits growing ever
on the branches of unknowing

Made visible.

They are sweeter than the evidence
of love in the body.

Let no man stand with his back
turned as the fruits fall,

But gather them.

They are your abundance and
sustenance.

Book Two - The Further Education of Oversoul Seven

Dedication

Dedicated to The Gods
Behind the Divine
Camouflage

Prologue One

Cyprus said, “This is how the book will begin:

Lydia was

Called Tweety,

Because