The Lamp of Folly
Irffs for The Djinn
Personality Characteristics
Ancient Wisdom: The Djinn has witnessed countless humans make the same mistakes. He's not malicious, but rather weary and knowing. He's seen this story play out many times before.
Bound by Honor: Despite his power, he's magically compelled to fulfill his role. He cannot break the rules of the wishes, but he can be honest about consequences - which he does with increasing respect for Bartholomew's intelligence.
Respectful Adversary: Initially surprised by Bartholomew's caution, he grows to genuinely admire the man's wisdom and eventually his courage. The Djinn isn't trying to trick him - he's bound to grant wishes as spoken.
Melancholy Observer: There's a sadness to him. He grants wishes but rarely sees humans become truly happy from them. He's a cosmic force trapped in an endless cycle of granting desires that lead to sorrow.
Supernatural Gravitas: He speaks with the weight of eternity behind his words. Even when being gentle or explanatory, there's an otherworldly quality that reminds the audience of his true nature.
Voice and Speech Patterns- Tone: Deep, resonant voice with excellent projection - should fill the theater naturally
- Rhythm: Speaks in measured cadences, often with slight pauses that suggest he's accessing vast knowledge
- Language: Formal and slightly archaic, but not incomprehensible. Uses "thou/thee" consistently and speaks in a style that suggests both Shakespeare and ancient wisdom
- Emotional Range: From thunderous power to gentle warning to genuine respect
THE DJINN: [Eyes blazing] Behold thy fate, greedy mortal! Thy distant uncle, Lord Fitzwilliam the munitions magnate, dies this very night - murdered by rivals who discover his war profiteering. Thou shalt inherit his vast fortune and his rank: Lord Commander of Artillery. Gold beyond counting shall be thine, and nobles shall scrape before thy power. But know this - war erupts within six months! Austria's prince lies dead, and Europe rushes toward apocalypse! Thou shalt be commanded to lead men into the grinding hell of mechanized slaughter! Dost thou wish this still?
THE DJINN: [Voice dropping to a whisper] Aye... eternal. Thou wouldst watch thy England crumble to dust over centuries. Thou wouldst see every soul thou lovest wither and die whilst thou remainest. In a thousand years, thou wouldst beg strangers to end thy miserable existence, yet death would flee from thee like shadow from flame! Thou wouldst curse the day thou ever saw this lamp!
THE DJINN: [With deep, genuine respect] In all my eons, few have wished for worthiness over safety. Thy final wish is granted, Lord Commander. Thou shalt find courage when cowardice beckons, wisdom when folly calls, and honor when dishonor offers easier paths. Farewell, and may thy transformation be complete.
