has met and those who will learn about him in the distant future. This phrase represents his life so well that it was inscribed on his tombstone, so that his legacy would live on forever. As knowledge always serves as an inspiration to all!
The statue of Prometheus stood tall for many years, and its message remained. As people journeyed from far away to see the incredible sculpture, their interpretations of its significance evolved. While some saw Prometheus as the embodiment of sacrifice for the greater good, others saw him as a symbol of rebellion against forms of oppression. Now as an elder, Callias frequently hovered around the statue and quietly took part in these discussions. His work had gone beyond his initial intentions, always changing with every generation that got to see it.
While working on a smaller commission in his workshop one day, Callias was approached by a young apprentice. The boy was very curious to speak with him. "Master," he replied, "I wish to create something that speaks to everyone, as your Prometheus statue does, but I fear I lack the skill and wisdom to achieve such greatness." "Skill can be acquired, and wisdom develops over time, but the real spark is in your intention," Callias said with a soft smile. What makes you want to create? "To leave something behind that will endure," the boy said after he paused, and Callias nodded knowingly. "Then allow purpose and truth to direct each stroke. Make your carvings for life, not for fame, but for the lives you will end up touching.”
Callias felt a profound sense of calm as the boy went back to work with a fresh sense of purpose. He looked at the statue of Prometheus again and understood that its legacy will be an inspiration that lives on forever
Works Cited
Atsma, Aaron J. “Prometheus - Greek Titan God of Forethought, Creator of Mankind.” Theoi.com, Theoi Project, 2017, www.theoi.com/Titan/TitanPrometheus.html.
Winning 11th grade submission, 2024-2025 NJCL Creative Writing Contest
CREATIVE WRITING · Summer 2025 · Torch: U.S.
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