The collection explores the interplay between silence and expression, beginning with a paradoxical call for quiet in a sacred space. Through its poems, it navigates themes of meaning and ambiguity, blending the articulate with the ineffable. The work invites readers to reflect on the complexities of language, engaging with both what can be said and what lies beyond words.
Luke Thompson embarks on an extraordinary journey exploring conversations with various beings, blending myth and reality. His narrative traverses diverse realms, from the tales of King Solomon and Doctor Dolittle to medieval dragon-slaying and encounters with extraterrestrial life. The exploration is enriched by insights from anthrozoology and experiences in Harvard laboratories and Caribbean waters, creating a unique tapestry of human-animal relationships and the quest for understanding across different cultures and times.
Ganda the rhinoceros became a sensation in sixteenth-century Europe, captivating kings, popes, and artists, including Albrecht Dürer, who famously depicted him. The book offers a whimsical exploration of Ganda's life and the expectations surrounding his species, intertwining historical narratives, bestiaries, and cultural references. It traces the evolution of the rhinoceros as a spectacle through various literary and artistic lenses, spanning from ancient texts to modern representations in media and pop culture.