Rusalka

Based on Antonin Dvorak's opera Rusalka, which in turn was inspired by traditional Czech fairytales, this novelette tells of the water nymph Rusalka and her love for a human prince. A haunting supernatural love story suitable for readers of all ages. With a look of deepest yearning, Rusalka reached out towards the sky with her tiny, pale hand. 'I want to leave the water and walk in the sun as a mortal ' She uttered this last word with trembling rapture. 'A mortal?' The Vodn k was even more astonished. 'Yes, dear father, a mortal ' she cried, rising. 'It was you who told me: they have souls which are immortal, which rise up to heaven when they die ' The Vodn k was sore troubled. 'Stay in the waters' embrace. Do not wish for a mortal soul Mortal souls are full of wickedness ' 'And love ' Rusalka cried ardently, reaching her arms up as though calling it to the host of stars above too. 'By the eternal waters ' exclaimed the Vodn k. 'Do you mean to say you love a mortal?'