“Power resides only where men
believe it resides….
…And ofttimes a very small man can
cast a very large shadow.”
Spoken by Varys, Master of Whispers, to Tyrion Lannister, A Game of Thrones Book 2
Looked down upon and ridiculed from
birth
by strangers and by family alike--
their wealth may purchase swords and
power too;
yet they could ill explain the
likes of you.
Survival hinges on resourceful mind--
you learned the power of words quite
early on;
advantages of self-effacing charm;
how quickly clever anecdotes
disarm.
Your father rules his kin with iron
fist…
unbending--forcing each to play
their part;
setting sights on who will win the
game
and bring more glory to his family
name.
But cleverness is ofttimes hidden
deep;
one’s stature and appearance a
disguise.
Through life of servitude and
forced conformity,
you have survived despite your odd
deformity.
Inside Kings Landing blood and
incest reign,
but still perhaps the least may
come to will rule--
while seven kingdoms fight for
righteous king,
we watch this "shadow" hiding in the
wing.
© Ginny Brannan 2013
Tyrion Lannister is a dwarf born into
a family of wealth and power. His mother died upon his birth, causing even
family to despise him and see him as an outcast. Yet he is still a Lannister,
and as such the name must be protected at all costs. Tyrion learned early on
that though his height had limitations, his mind did not; and knowledge would
be key to his survival. Seen as a fool by many due to his deformity, those on
the sidelines of power know that he is much more than he appears to be. Tyrion proves that wit and knowledge
can be a mighty allies, and that a small man might cast a large shadow, indeed.
Find the first, "Daenery's Song" here.
Find the Second, "Beyond the Wall" here.
