A/N: Prompt # 9 – Why exactly did Sherlock Holmes ask the Doctor to accompany him on the Drebber murder, other than the 'If you've nothing better to do' we get from STUD?
Sorry, this one is extremely short :-/
Compelling Curiosity
Prompt 9 – Instructive Introspections
The word 'boredom' is difficult to define. Not that you cannot find a clear definition in a dictionary; but it is applied to so many situations that the meaning has become obscured over time.
It has been used to describe all things from laziness as a trait to general lethargy to indifference, none of which embody the true meaning.
The technical definition refers to someone who is wearied by repetition and tedium or unwelcome attentions. But when applied, I find that it is still too broad an explanation.
A more accurate term for the condition would be 'ennui,' which adds specificity by indicating lack of interest or satiety as the reason. This definition best fits my friend and me when we sink into such a state.
Our methods of escape vary as well, as we dabble in our preferred artificial stimulants, indulge in long hours at our respective clubs, and spend a good deal of time in arbitrary conversation.
I recall one such time when this lassitude had us both in such a dreadful hold that the antagonism between us was near to the breaking point.
This was early in our acquaintance, when our young tempers drove us to vie for dominance in every situation. I truly believe that had the ennui of that fateful spring continued, we would not be sharing rooms today.
Thank God for the murder of Enoch Drebber. It was when that case was brought to our door, that we both found our method of escape.
One would think that we should have desired separation after so many days of tension, but in those few short weeks of sharing lodgings, we had discovered something. Whether we were aware of it then is another matter, but we had discovered in each other kindred spirits. We were two bohemian souls, trying to carve out a unique place in the potpourri of life.
So when the call came and that case was laid before us, the choice we had to make was pivotal. That moment would define the future, for we had already instinctively realized that it was together or not at all that we must go.
And go we did. Thus, our fates were decided, and together we have been ever since that moment.
One thing that typically is attributed to boredom is indifference. For some people, it may be the reality. But in the case of us two, nothing could be further from the truth. Because when the tedium takes over, my friend is there by my side, and I by his. When one has a friend, apathy can find no place in their heart.
So we drift through the kaleidoscope in concert, forever searching for the path from the weary darkness to the refreshing light, bound together for eternity. And we would not have it any other way.
Author's notes: I'm sorry this is short, but my inspiration for this one vanished among my dreams last night. So I tried another path, but I'm afraid writer's block is returning; I can usually expound on these ambiguous subjects for pages, but I could find little to do with this one. In any case, I am happy with the result, short though it may be.
Speaking of ambiguity, who do you think is speaking? ;-)
This is dedicated to my friend Amanda. Welcome home!
