Riddle Cafe
15

What flies when it's born, lies when it's alive, and runs when it's dead?

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This clever riddle perfectly describes the journey of a snowflake, from its ethereal beginnings to its final transformation. When a snowflake is "born," it forms high in the atmosphere within clouds, where water vapor freezes around a tiny dust particle. These nascent ice crystals then begin their descent, "flying" through the air as they are carried by wind and gravity towards the earth's surface. Each snowflake is a unique masterpiece, boasting an intricate hexagonal structure that develops as it falls through varying temperature and humidity zones.

Once a snowflake lands, it becomes part of the accumulated snow cover, "lying" peacefully on the ground, on branches, or atop buildings. In this state, it contributes to the blanket of white that transforms landscapes, insulating the ground and providing a crucial water reservoir. This period of rest can last for days or even months, depending on the ambient temperatures and environmental conditions.

The final stage of the snowflake's life cycle, its "death," occurs when temperatures rise above freezing. The solid ice crystal melts, transforming back into liquid water. This water then "runs" as it flows over surfaces, joins streams, rivers, and eventually makes its way to larger bodies of water, completing the hydrological cycle. This journey from sky to ground and back again highlights the dynamic and ever-changing nature of water in our environment.

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21

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20

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19

You may think me an actor; people come from all over the world to see me play my role. The play begins like all plays do – the red curtain draws aside, and I come onto the stage. There is one other actor. He is dressed in beautiful, bright clothing. I, however, am entirely naked. There are many acts in this play, in between which the other actor helps me to get dressed before the curtain reopens. He dresses me in colorful piercings and a red coat. The story we tell is a tragedy through dance. My choreography is straightforward, but if he forgets his then the play is over. Either way, I consider this a once in a lifetime performance. What role do I play?

19

I'm the end that brings the end, I'm the one that hides. Shackles gird me waist to toe, Sealed in tower I. Ever tasked to make amends, Slowly here I die. My stricken foe you'll never know, His death is met with sigh.

19

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