The Figure In The Mirage 1905

"The Figure In The Mirage" by Robert Hichens is a story unfolding in the mysterious Moroccan desert that examines the themes of longing, what appears to be real, and the differences between how people live every day and the natural world. Readers follow a group of individuals from Paris as they travel into the Sahara, and discover a blending of dreams and truth. The story begins with a stranger telling of an adventurous couple and the younger sister, Valérie. They all become fascinated by the charm of the desert and its unique culture. As they journey further into the Sahara, Valérie becomes obsessed with a strange horseman she sees in a mirage, igniting both her imagination and wishes. This Arab figure is a sign of both what she wants and the captivating but risky attraction of the desert. The story concludes with a touching discovery about love and what is meant to be, and it shows how Valérie’s vision connects the past and present, as well as what is made up and what is real. As a result, she finds herself at a turning point regarding what her heart truly wants. Told with grace, the magic of the desert is captured while also examining how complex people's feelings and connections can be.