What Was Lost

In the heart of the desolate landscape that once bore the cradle of civilization, a monument stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity. "What Was Lost" is a poignant tribute to the Earth's former inhabitants, whose lives and cultures were forever changed by the cataclysmic Event that reshaped their world.
A circular plaza, several hundred meters in diameter, serves as the centerpiece of the monument. Its circumference is symbolic of the unity and continuity of human experience, as well as the cyclical nature of existence. At the center of this circle, a towering stone pillar rises from the ground, an amalgamation of materials representing the myriad cultures that once thrived in the region.
Intricately engraved upon the pillar are scenes of daily life, history, and traditions from the countries that were irrevocably altered by the disaster. Surrounding the pillar, concentric circles of smaller pillars bear the names of cities, towns, and villages lost to time, preserving the collective memory of a world that is no more.
Visitors meander along a gently winding path through the monument, pausing to contemplate the myriad lives that were extinguished by the event. Quiet alcoves and seating areas punctuate the garden, offering spaces for introspection and meditation. By night, the monument is bathed in a soft, ethereal light, creating a tranquil atmosphere in which to remember and honor the past.
"What Was Lost" is not merely a memorial to a tragedy; it is a clarion call to action for the living. Here, among the verdant garden that has reclaimed the once-barren land, the spirit of hope and renewal takes root. The monument serves as a reminder of the need to cherish the cultural diversity that remains in the world, a symbol of the resilience of life, and a promise that we shall never forget the lessons of our past.
Emblazoned upon the five arches that guard the entrance to the monument are the words Adab, Akhlaq, Philia, Ubuntu, and Minga—principles that underpin the Union Commonwealth and its people. They serve as gateways, inviting visitors to reflect on these values as they engage with the monument and its powerful message of hope, resilience, and unity.
In this solemn place, the wisdom of the ancients merges with the aspirations of a new world. As humanity reaches ever outward into the cosmos, propelled by the miracle of compact fusion engines and the promise of faster-than-light travel, the memory of "What Was Lost" remains etched in our collective consciousness. It is a living reminder of the price of progress, and the responsibility we bear to protect the fragile tapestry of our shared existence.

Type

Monument, Large