I looked again and behold, all the elements and all the creatures were shaking with horrible motion. The fire, the air, and the water broke open and moved the land. Flashes of lightning and claps of thunder clashed. Mountains and forests fell. As a result, all mortal things breathed out their life. Summer became subject to contradictory chill, while winter often experienced paradoxical warmth. Winds were burdened by the utterly awful stink of evil. Thunderstorms menaced and the air belched out the filthy uncleanliness of the peoples.

 

And I heard a voice speak so loud that it could be heard throughout the whole circle of the lands. It said: all you people who lie on the ground, rise up!

Hildegard of Bingen*