2 weeks ago
Anthology Finds Wonder in Strange Anthropocene Realities
The review says some parts of the anthology use words that sound impressive but do not offer much hope.
The best pieces help readers notice the world differently.
Helen Davis writes about a word called “plastiglomerate.”
It describes plastic that has joined with natural materials.
This substance is found mostly in oceans.
The reviewer finds this strange material more inspiring than long instructions about how people should feel.
Chandravarkar says that weeds and backyard shrubs deserve wonder too.
The anthology is strongest when it shows surprising realities instead of simply making grand statements.
The anthology is criticized for relying on empty rhetoric and hollow jargon.
The strongest pieces make readers view the world in fresh ways.
Helen Davis examines the etymology of “plastiglomerate,” plastic fused with organic matter.
The material, found mostly in oceans, represents a new kind of hybrid materiality.
Chandravarkar’s lengthy discourse urges readers to find wonder in ordinary nature, including weeds and backyard shrubs.
- Who
- The anthology’s contributors, including Helen Davis and Chandravarkar.
- What
- A review assesses an anthology, praising essays that create wonder while criticizing empty rhetoric and jargon.
- Where
- The discussion mentions plastiglomerate found mostly in oceans, but no publication or review location is stated.
- When
- Why
- The reviewer values writing that gives readers fresh perspectives on the world, especially the realities of the Anthropocene.
Key facts
- Work discussed
- An anthology containing essays and longer discourses
- Praised contributor
- Helen Davis
- Highlighted term
- “Plastiglomerate”
- Definition
- Plastic fused with organic matter
- Where plastiglomerate is found
- Mostly in oceans
- Other contributor mentioned
- Chandravarkar
- Central idea
- Ordinary and unfamiliar natural realities can inspire wonder
Quotes
Chandravarkar
Author of The State of Nature and the State of Practice
“We must learn to recognize that the weed in the pavement crack and shrub in our backyard are as worthy of wonder as the primal forest.”
livemint.com
Sources
Related news
Review finds Samanth Subramanian’s essays eclectic, connected, and uneven
Readers Debate Whimsymaxxing, 9/11, Teachers, and Cricket’s Future
Five Poems Turn Suffering Into Cosmic, Surreal Visions
Yogendra Yadav Calls for New Ideas Beyond Western Modernity
