Flight From Crimson Marble is inspired by the decline and fall of the Roman Empire. I find this period of ancient history to be extremely emotionally moving, and I believe it is not often presented to students as such. The individuals living in Roman society during the decline and fall of the Empire lived in constant fear and turmoil, and often had to witness horrible atrocities as various tribes invaded and sacked Roman cities. Many people fled from Rome, despite the advantages which living in the wondrous city provided them. This is evidence of how horrible the bloodshed, violence and terror was during this time. Citizens had to forsake comfortable accommodations in the city and take up residence in the furthest corners of Europe, living in dwellings such as windowless castles and meager shacks. The standard of living dropped significantly. Despite all of this, humans still fought for survival. Flight From Crimson Marble exposes the emotional turmoil experienced by the citizens at the fall of the Empire, the instability of their lives, and the perseverance of humanity during such a dark period in human history.