The Fool - Russell Wharton

In tarot card reading, the Fool is the card that represents yourself as the main character in your life, which in the tarot is known as the “Fool’s Journey”. The Fool is characterized as somewhat of a Don-Quixote-like figure; well-meaning and exuberant, but also naïve, vain, and of course, foolish. The Fool has good intentions, but they stumble through life, making many mistakes along the way.

This piece is an attempt to express empathy towards the more “foolish” sides of ourselves. Deep emotions are often connected to distant memories, so the music is simple and almost lullaby-like in an attempt to speak to the younger self inside of us. Several techniques have been used to make the presentation of this piece seem old and degraded, as if it was found on an old tape in a dusty corner of our childhood bedroom.

Composed and performed by Russell Wharton

Video by Jake Lyons

Audio by Nick Mason

Special thanks to Paul Chilsen and Michael Forbes

View more of Russell’s compositions HERE.