King of Ghosts: A True Story of Alcoholism Told Through Tattoos and Folklore

Symbols of addiction and sobriety in my life

Photo by Jesse Bowser on Unsplash

Zhong Kui is a mythological deity from Taoist folklore. He was granted a nickname meaning “top-scorer”, for his performance on the imperial examinations. Despite this, he was cast out by the emperor due to his hideous appearance.

Despairing over this treatment, Zhong Kui took his own life. He was sent to hell for the sin of suicide, where he became The King of Ghosts — charged with responsibility of them all, maintaining order among the demons. He was thus known as the tamer of evil spirits.

His Japanese name is Shoki The Demon Queller.

Tattoos form a powerful bond between artist and human canvas, to be cherished through resonance of the art shared by both.

1. “Rocks, demons, smoke”

“I’m thinking I’d like to get a Japanese-style sleeve. Something with a samurai.”

The first session is a consultation. The tattooist and I talk ideas, then he takes a break to work on a drawing. The next time I see him, I’ll decide whether to give him the go-ahead on a design inspired by our discussion.

The tattoo shops I frequent seem to have this unmistakable, pleasing smell. Maybe it’s the ink they use, or the cleaning supplies, or another unknown — a specific fragrance I can’t put my finger on. In any case, it’s invigorating.

My right arm is already covered in traditional American tattoos. As a way of balancing yang with yin, I think my left would benefit from an artistic tribute to the east. The tattooist admits Japanese tattoos are his favorite style.

“Okay sure, I think we can do that. A warrior on your upper arm, and then down lower, maybe a dragon with some water, or…rocks, demons, smoke. What do you think?”

The latter sounds more my style. I let him know. He says he’s thinking of a Shoki The Demon Queller theme. I don’t know the story yet, but I’m fascinated. We part ways, so that he can get to work on the concept. In the meantime, I read about the myth, and find a connection with my own life.