Gemotions

The library card clutched in David's hand felt cold and unfamiliar. He had intended to return his books, but the task seemed insurmountable. The thought of sorting through his belongings, of making decisions, filled him with a weariness that went beyond simple fatigue. The information had settled over him like a blanket.

He found a quiet corner and sat, sinking into the plush chair. The scent of old paper and leather soothed him. He stared at the spines of the books, the titles blurring together. His thoughts were a slow, meandering stream. He was not unhappy. But he was emptied.

He felt the weight of the library, the knowledge contained within those shelves, and his own insignificance in the face of it all. He closed his eyes. The light from a nearby lamp cast a soft glow on his face.