‘Rocky the snake’ inspires awe and wonder

River Park South

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 18/09/2024 (705 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

River Park South is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a vibrant community where creativity and imagination flourish. The towering Santa has become a beloved tradition to the delight of commuters along Warde Avenue. The extravagant decorations that adorn homes during Halloween and Christmas transform the streets into a magical wonderland, sparking joy, wonder, and awe (and maybe a bit of terror on Oct 31) in all who behold them.

Earlier this summer a new masterpiece emerged – Rocky the snake. If you’ve walked or biked the active transportation path which connects St. Mary’s and St. Anne’s roads, and paid attention at the point between École St. Germain and St. Timothy’s Church, you might know what I mean. While small at first, this snake made of painted rocks has grown, as snakes do, and is now several yards long featuring colourful markings and, at one point I am told, three heads.

When I first met Rocky, I immediately thought of my six-year-old neighbour. He and I have the best conversations about things I wouldn’t normally talk about – dinosaurs, a new friend at school, bugs, and numerous other topics infused with the perspective that only someone that age can offer. So, when I invited Lincoln on a walk to see a snake, the request was met with wide eyes and the precise response one would expect from one that age: “Let’s go!”

When we found Rocky, I heard the response I expected: “That’s not a snake!”

Or was it…

As we examined its entire length, rock by rock by rock, each carefully decorated stone compelled some comment, observation or sharing. Rocky may not slither, may not have a real mouth, and may be very hard to pick up, but to the six-year-old and the 60-something-year-old, Rocky was indeed a snake, appropriately named, and in a place where it would thrive and grow under the watchful eyes of passersby. Its creators, A.S. and S.S., remain anonymous, adding some mystery and intrigue to the appearance of what we might call a community pet.

Though not a living creature, Rocky is definitely a symbol of the spirit of inventiveness and ingenuity in River Park South. This is what builds and strengthens our community. When people create and innovate in such a playful and inviting way, they enrich the lives of others. Imagine a snake having that kind of sway!