The Festival of the Whispering Fence
A Celebration of Boundaries, Breezes, and Unspoken Understanding
Each Midseed, the village of Brillings Wane hosts one of the Kingdom’s most contemplative (and occasionally bewildering) festivals: The Festival of the Whispering Fence.
What began as a rural tradition of airing grievances across property lines has evolved into a national observance of mutual respect, muffled communication, and the occasional passive-aggressive bunting.
Origins
Legend tells of two 10th-century farmers—Alred the Tall and Clem of the Other Side—who resolved a bitter dispute over carrot shadows by building a crooked fence between their fields and agreeing to never speak again… only murmur.
That fence, now enshrined and lightly varnished, still stands (with assistance).
Festivities
- The Fence-Murmuring Procession: Residents march alongside the ceremonial fence whispering minor complaints and compliments to one another through the slats.
- The Boundary Waltz: Couples dance along invisible lines while trying not to cross over into each other’s rhythm.
- The Grand Line-Stringing: Children tie ribbons, socks, and short poems to hedgerows in symbolic detente.
Tea is served from two kettles at opposite ends of the village green. You may only drink from the one you didn’t bring.
Rules & Expectations
- No shouting. All messages must be whispered, scribbled, or passed via wooden spoon.
- No overtly cheerful bunting. All colours must be muted or melancholy.
- Passive gestures are welcome; actual confrontation is not.
Commemorative Stamp Released
This year’s commemorative stamp features two gloved hands nearly shaking across a slightly leaning fence. Proceeds support the Fence Preservation Trust and the Ministry of Mutual Restraint.
Editor’s Note: The Festival of the Whispering Fence reminds us all that sometimes the best way to love one another is at a polite distance, with wind and wood between.