The sphinx

The Sphinx is a short story that tells of a man who retreats to the countryside to escape a cholera outbreak in New York City.

While observing the landscape, he sees a monstrous creature in the distance, larger than any animal he has ever seen.

Terrified, he believes that it is a sign of the end times.

However, it is later revealed to be a common moth seen through a trick of perspective, appearing gigantic due to its proximity to the window.

The story explores themes of fear, perception, and the power of imagination, showing how easily our minds can be deceived by appearances.