Set in a near-future society, the story blends humor with a satirical take on dystopian themes. It explores the absurdities of life amidst societal decay, highlighting the quirky characters who navigate their bleak reality with wit and charm. The narrative balances comedic elements with poignant reflections on contemporary issues, making readers laugh while prompting deeper thought about the direction of humanity.
The book explores controversial themes through its vivid depictions of medical procedures and the complexities of teenage life, including drinking and social dynamics. It also delves into animal husbandry, providing insights into rural life and responsibilities. The narrative challenges societal norms with elements of heresy and unique cultural practices, such as assarting, all while featuring characters that navigate these intricate issues. The inclusion of exposed female hairstyles adds a layer of commentary on identity and appearance.
The discovery of a new planet with ancient alien ruins disrupts the long-standing dominance of nine corporations over the galaxy. Amidst the chaos, an unlikely hero emerges, challenging the established power dynamics. As an intergalactic civil war erupts, a secretive matrilineal monarchy seeks to seize control, raising questions about leadership and legacy. The story explores themes of power, identity, and the struggle for freedom in a richly crafted sci-fi universe.
The Necessity of Sculpture brings together a selection of articles on sculpture and sculptors from Eric Gibson's nearly four-decade career as an art critic. It covers subjects as diverse as Mesopotamian cylinder seals, war memorials, and the art of the American West; stylistic periods such as the Hellenistic in Ancient Greece and Kamakura in medieval Japan; Michelangelo, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Augustus Saint-Gaudens, and other historical figures; modernists like Auguste Rodin, Pablo Picasso, and Alberto Giacometti; and contemporary artists including Richard Serra, Rachel Whiteread, and Jeff Koons. Organized chronologically by artist and period, this collection is as much a synoptic history of sculpture as it is an art chronicle. At the same time, it is an illuminating introduction to the subject for anyone coming to it for the first time.