In Victor Hugo's poem, “What Two Horsemen Were Thinking in the Forest”, the narrator says “by my side, Hermann seemed to me like a shadow.”

We all have shadows, even at night in the dark forest. You may call yours by another name. Your imaginary friend. Your conscience, your soul, maybe even your ego. Your shadow could have a name, like Hermann. Or your shadow could be your perfume.

Your shadow is your companion. You can argue with your companion, you can challenge your companion, you can test the boundaries of your own attitudes or debate the finer points of existence. But you cannot lose this companion, not ever, as it is your alternative self. When you're overwhelmed with uncertainties, you can look to your shadow. Maybe you'll get a response. Maybe not.

"The night was so black and the forest very dark. By my side, Hermann seemed to me like a shadow. Our horses were galloping. Guardians of god! The clouds in the sky looked like marble. The stars flew through the branches of the trees like a swarm of firebirds. The bushes are whispering like old friends. And I say to Hermann, 'Respect the black mystery! The dead are lying in the ground under our feet. These are the hearts that once loved you. Do not dismay them. As in a dream, they hear our voices."

Notes: black pepper, galbanum, blackcurrant, incense, geosmin, rose absolute, vetiver, patchouli, ambroxan