It frustrates me when people without knowledge about dinosaurs insist that they were stupid. Although we may never fully understand the behavior and cognitive abilities of dinosaurs, most scientists believe that dinosaurs possessed some level of intelligence. Troodon is considered the smartest dinosaur because of its above-average brain-to-body ratio.
Despite the extensive research conducted by scientists on modern animal brains, proving the high intelligence of certain species, some people still maintain that animals are unintelligent and lack emotions. Whenever people claim animals are incapable of feeling emotions, Jedi Master David Attenborough and Jedi Master Jane Goodall feel a great disturbance in the force.
If you share the same fascination for dinosaurs as many others do, let me take you on a journey to a world that existed long ago.
The cruel calculus of evolution permits no sentimentality.
'Call her Utahraptor. The Hunter of Ancient Utah.' This name was suggested by the book's author, Robert T. Bakker, to his colleague, James Kirkland, who was filled with excitement upon discovering a massive fossil raptor claw unearthed in Utah.
I got emotionally invested in a dinosaur. A DINOSAUR.
I regret nothing. Raptor Red is so much better than Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park (if you stay still, a T-Rex, one of the most skilled predators to ever roam the Earth, won't be able to see or smell you. ...more
I have quite an extensive list of fictional Greek mythology husbands. It includes Hades, Helios, Cupid, and Achilles, just to name a few. One particulI have quite an extensive list of fictional Greek mythology husbands. It includes Hades, Helios, Cupid, and Achilles, just to name a few. One particular 'guy' surpasses almost all of them.
He enjoys wine, celebrations, strolls along the shore, leopards, and dispatching his female followers to cause chaos in cities that have offended him.
He goes by many names - Dionysus, Bacchus, and even the patron saint of frat boys, rock stars, and married people.
The god of wine, festivity, fertility, and theatre rarely seeks revenge, but when he decides to, he does so in a truly stylish manner.
I hear about disgusting things going on, here in the city - women leaving home to go to silly Bacchic rituals, cavorting there in mountain shadows, with dances honouring some upstart god, this Dionysus, whoever he may be.
SPOILERS:
I thought about which book to revisit, Bacchus or Medea. The choice was easy. There's crazy, and there's my husband left me, so I murdered our children crazy.
I prefer to indulge in stories about a hot deity struggling with alcoholism and leading an all-female cult that negatively impacts others JUST BECAUSE.
I have many friends who aren't familiar with Greek mythology, so before diving into the story, let me provide you with a quick background on Dionysus.
Dionysus was born to Semele, a mortal, and Zeus, the ruler of the gods. Semele was seduced by Zeus and ended up pregnant. Hera, Zeus' wife, disguised herself as an elderly woman to gain Semele's trust. Through manipulation, Hera convinced Semele to ask Zeus for a wish. Zeus, bound by his oath on the River Styx, had to comply. Semele's wish was to see Zeus in his full divine form. Despite his shock and sadness, Zeus had to reveal himself. It is essential to honor any commitment made on the River Styx. When a mortal lays eyes on a god in their full splendor, the result is fatal, and Semele was consumed by flames.
Zeus rescued the unborn baby by stitching him inside his thigh (don't ask how; I'm not a doctor). If you find that insane, you better dig into the origins of Athena, the half-sister of Dionysus. Don't worry about Semele - when Dionysus reached adulthood, he ventured into the Underworld and brought her to Mount Olympus. It seems like Hades took the day off or something.
Suddenly, some of the citizens of Thebes, including his three aunts, began spreading rumors about his mother. They accused Semele of being promiscuous and getting pregnant by a mere mortal. They refused to accept that Dionysus was Zeus' son. Enraged, Dionysus vowed to seek justice for his mother and teach a lesson to those who dared to speak badly of her.
You messed up by angering not just any god but one of the twelve Olympians. Well done, Thebes.
'Tis a majestic thing, the darkness.
Dionysus causes the women of the town to go insane, even his aunts, and guides them to the mountains to participate in 'sacred' rituals. By 'sacred,' I mean some weird shit went down.
That's what you get for talking smack about a deity's mother.
He wants to avenge his mother, prove his divinity to all, and establish a cult. Sounds like a bulletproof plan to me.
Upon discovering the existence of the Dionysus cult, Pentheus, the king of Thebes (and the son of Semele's sister Agave), becomes furious. He prohibits the worship of Dionysus and vows to hunt down and eliminate the enigmatic stranger responsible for seducing his subjects (who is, in fact, Dionysus in disguise).
Dammit, Pentheus, if people want to join a cult, let them! What else is there to do in ancient Greece?
The stranger (Dionysus) is captured and confined. Utilizing his godly abilities, he frees himself and wreaks havoc on his surroundings. Meanwhile, the women of the town, now identifying as the Bacchae, descend into madness. They begin assaulting the villagers. I haven't questioned anything so far, so why begin now? Do what needs to be done, ladies.
Dionysus, in disguise, successfully convinces Pentheus to refrain from resorting to violence against the women. He manipulates and distorts Pentheus' mind. He leads him out of the security of his palace. Pentheus begins to act strangely. I'm going to climb a tree kind of crazy. Dionysus reveals his true identity, and the Bacchae show up to begin killing Pentheus (his mother, Agave, is among the women).
Pentheus loses his head. Literally. Agave returns to the town, holding her son's decapitated head. She proudly presents it to her father, the former king of Thebes. Shock and horror fill his face as he witnesses the gruesome sight. As Agave's madness gradually subsides, she starts to comprehend the magnitude of her actions. She and her sisters are forced into exile. Her parents transform into serpents. Dionysus and his followers embark on their mission to destroy another city. What else is there to do in ancient Greece?
Exclusive clip from Semele, chilling in the afterlife, watching her sister Agave kill her son Pentheus:
I'm sure most of you are familiar with the tale of Theseus leaving Ariadne on a deserted island only to be saved by Dionysus, who later became her husband. I'm currently on a quest to discover a deserted island, intentionally lose my way, and patiently await the arrival of a hot deity who will rescue me.
P.S. There are several translations of this book. Choose wisely.
Playlist:
Living Colour - Cult of Personality MGMT - Little Dark Age Billie Eilish - You Should See Me in a Crown Lana Del Rey - Gods and Monsters David Kushner - Daylight The Chainsmokers - Sick Boy Echos - Saints Post Malone ft. 21 Savage - Rockstar...more
EDIT: Warning for those who are not familiar with Greek mythology: Spoiler alert!
Cronus, king of the Titans, ate his children Hades, Poseidon, Hera, Demeter, and Hestia. Don't worry, they survived. He tried to eat Zeus but failed. Cronus also castrated his father, Uranus, and threw his severed genitals into the ocean. Now that's some good true crime content.
King of the Gods Zeus ate his first wife, Metis, while she was pregnant with Athena. Don't worry, Athena survived. Metis, not so much. RIP sweet Oceanid. In the words of the great Alan Rickman, 'by Grabthar's hammer, by the Sons of Warvan, you shall be avenged.'
Tantalus killed his son Pelops and tried to serve him as a Swedish buffet-style meal to the gods. (I'm paraphrasing, but this is basically what happened).
Welcome to Greek mythology, where cannibalism, filicide, parricide, uxoricide, adultery, and incest are not only expected but encouraged.
I fully immersed myself in the world of gods and monsters. I'd forgotten how much I loved Greek mythology. Edith Hamilton did her thing. Allow me to explain the unhinged world of gods and goddesses in my modern, unhinged way.
99% of the men from Greek mythology belong to the streets. If they're not cheating, then they're committing literal sex crimes. Zeus bangs anything that walks. Naiad Daphne's father, a river god, transformed her into a laurel tree as she fled from Apollo to avoid his advances. Living life as a plant is more desirable than being Harvey Weinsteined by a Greek god. Ares is psychotic. Poseidon has a short temper but also loves dolphins, so I guess he's not all that bad.
Why is Theseus considered a hero? He used Ariadne to help him defeat the Minotaur, then ditched her on a deserted island (thankfully, she was rescued by Dionysus). He also abducted Helen. I feel like this topic is not discussed enough. Theseus was trash.
Dionysus, whom I affectionately refer to as the Jim Morrison of Greek mythology, is probably my favorite. He enjoys indulging in wholesome activities such as orgies, riding his leopard-drawn chariot, and drinking wine. I don't see any problem with that. Live your best life, king. Dionysus had female followers known as Maenads (or Bacchae) who enjoyed revelry, drinking alcohol, and occasionally wreaking havoc on cities (and men). Although Dionysus had a reputation as a manwhore, he still managed to find true love. One of my favorite love stories in Greek mythology is that of Dionysus and his wife, Ariadne, a mortal princess from Crete. But that's a story for another review.
The majority of the gods and goddesses: scheming, plotting, fighting
Dionysus: traveling, drinking, having orgies, living his best life.
Athena, Artemis, Persephone, Psyche, and Nyx are absolute queens. Let's talk about Nyx, the primordial goddess of night. Did you know Nyx is so fierce that even Zeus, the king of the gods, fears her? Nyx is the daughter of Chaos and the mother of Hemera (the personification of day), Aether (the personification of sky), Hypnos (god of sleep), Thanatos (god of death), Eris (goddess of strife and discord), Nemesis (goddess of retribution), and The Moirai (the Fates), among others.
Do we even need to talk about Athena? To paraphrase Wendy Williams, she's an icon, she's a legend, and she is the moment. In the competition for the patronage of Athens, Athena emerged victorious over Poseidon. She provided guidance and watched over numerous heroes, including Odysseus, Perseus, Jason, and Heracles. Athena was not a saint; however, she had her bitchy moments. When Arachne claimed to be a better weaver than Athena, the goddess turned her into a spider. Harsh but also iconic.
1. Hades (god of the dead and king of the Underworld) and Persephone (goddess of Spring, later became queen of the Underworld)
2. Cupid/Eros (son of Aphrodite, god of desire and erotic love) and Psyche (mortal princess, later became goddess of soul)
3. Dionysus (god of wine, festivity, fertility, and theatre) and Ariadne (mortal princess of Crete)
4. Orpheus (the greatest musician who ever lived) and Eurydice (the tragic wife of Orpheus )
5. Selene (goddess of the Moon) and Endymion (mortal shepherd and hunter)
6. Hero (a virgin priestess of Aphrodite) and Leander (the young man who fell in love with her)
7. Echo (a nymph/oread) and Narcissus (a hunter who fell in love with his own reflection). Not really a love story, but I had to include them. ♫ You're so vain, you probably think this song review is about you ♫
I still haven't grown out of my Hades/Persephone phase. Persephone, a sheltered daughter of a controlling mother, was abducted/eloped with Hades, the King of the Underworld. If I had to choose between gardening and ruling the Underworld with the hot king of the dead, I would have been like, 'F the flowers.' Daniella Michalleni's poem I hope you’ve heard of horns, but that isn’t half of it. Out of an entire kingdom he kneels only to me, calls me Queen, calls me Mercy. Mama, Mama, I hope you get this. Know the bed is warm and our hearts are cold, know never have I been better than when I am here. Do not send flowers, we’ll throw them in the river. ‘Flowers are for the dead’, ‘least that’s what the mortals say. I’ll come back when he bores me, but Mama, not today lives in my head rent-free.
There are multiple versions of the Hades/Persephone myth, but my preferred canon depicts Persephone falling in love with Hades, embracing her dark side, and living happily with him in the Underworld. Is kidnapping really that big of a sin? Let's cut Hades some slack. I would love to discuss the other couples, but this review is already too long. The story of Psyche, her sisters, Aphrodite, and Cupid is a chaotic drama that deserves its own review.
Greek mythology gods and humans as Lana Del Rey lyrics
Gaia (the personification of the Earth) - I got my red dress on tonight, dancin' in the dark, in the pale moonlight
Nyx (the powerful primordial goddess of the night) - He said to be cool but, I'm already coolest, I said to get real, "Don't you know who you're dealing with?"
Zeus (king of the gods, sender of thunder) - Love you more than those bitches before
Hera (queen of the gods, goddess of marriage and childbirth) - My old man is a bad man, but I can't deny the way he holds my hand
Demeter (goddess of the harvest and agriculture) - They mistook my kindness for weakness, I fucked up, I know that, but, Jesus, can't a girl just do the best she can?
Poseidon (god of the sea and earthquakes) - Did you know that there's a tunnel under Ocean Boulevard?
Hestia ( the virgin goddess of the hearth) - She said, "Most men don't want a woman with a legacy, it's of age." She said, "You can't be a muse and be happy, too
Hades (god of the dead and wealth, and king of the Underworld) - Oh, my heart it breaks every step that I take, but I'm hoping that the gates, they'll tell me that you're mine. Choose your last words, this is the last time, 'cause you and I, we were born to die
Persephone (daughter of Demeter, goddess of spring, queen of the Underworld) - In the land of Gods and Monsters, I was an angel living in the garden of evil
Athena (virgin goddess of wisdom, warfare, and handicraft) - I wasn't crazy, I was divine
Artemis (Apollo's twin sister, virgin goddess of the hunt and wild animals) - If you want some basic bitch, go to the Beverly Center and find her
Apollo (Artemis' twin brother, god of the sun, light, archery, prophecy, truth, healing, diseases, music, poetry) - You were like tall, tan driving 'round the city, flirting with the girls like, "You're so pretty"
Aphrodite (goddess of love and beauty) - I fucked my way up to the top, this is my show
Ares (god of war) - Been tryin' hard not to get into trouble, but I've got a war in my mind
Dionysus (god of wine, theatre, festivity, fertility) - Please don't try to find me through my dealer, he won't pick up his phone
Ariadne (princess of Crete, sister of Minotaur, wife of Dionysus) - If he's a serial killer, then what's the worst that could happen to a girl who's already hurt? I'm already hurt
Hermes (messenger of the gods, protector of travelers, merchants, couriers, and thieves) - I'm smoking while I'm runnin' on my treadmill, but I'm cutting up roses, could it be that I fell for another loser
Hephaestus (god of fire, metalworking, craftsmen, and volcanoes) - Open me up, tell me you like it, fuck me to death, love me until I love myself
Cupid (god of desire and erotic love) - It's a love story for the new age, for the sixth page, we're on a quick, sick rampage
Psyche (a mortal princess who became the goddess of the soul after marrying Cupid) - Oh, be my once in a lifetime, lyin' on your chest in my party dress I'm a fuckin' mess, but I oh, thanks for the high life, baby, it's the best, passed the test, and yes, now I’m here with you
Daphne (a naiad, daughter of the river god Peneus) - There's things I wanna say to you, but I'll just let you live, like if you hold me without hurting me, you'll be the first who ever did
Hecate (goddess of magic, witchcraft, necromancy, and ghosts) - I want money, power and glory, I want money and all your power, all your glory, Hallelujah, I wanna take you for all that you got
Nemesis (goddess of retribution and punisher of evil deeds) - No holds barred, I was sent to destroy
Eris (the goddess of discord) - I heard that you like the bad girls, honey, is that true?
Orpheus (the greatest musician who ever lived) - And there's no remedy for memory, your face is like a melody, it won't leave my head. Your soul is haunting me and telling me that everything is fine, but I wish I was dead (dead, like you)
Eurydice (Orpheus' wife) - You're in the wind, I'm in the water, nobody's son, nobody's daughter
Hera, whenever Zeus knocks up one of his mistresses:
I would like to conclude this review by informing (or reminding) everyone that Aphrodite had an affair with Ares while being married to Hephaestus....more
Helen - the face that launched a thousand memes. Has the worst taste in men.
Paris - the biggest fuckboy in Greek mythology. I don't condone child abuse, but I can see why his parents wanted to kill him when he was a baby.
Hector - the perfect son, husband, father, brother, and prince. Tames horses in his spare time.
Andromache - the perfect wife, mother, and princess. The Kate Middleton of Greek mythology.
King Priam - had a hundred children. He's lucky child support didn't exist in ancient times.
Queen Hecuba - had nineteen children and a horny husband.
Briseis - in need of therapy.
Ajax the great - the OG alpha male macho man dude-bro.
Ajax the lesser - I guess he was a beta male?
Hera - to quote Lizzo, it's bad bitch o'clock.
Athena - it's ok to be a virgin. It's even better to be a virgin goddess of wisdom, warfare, and handicraft. I support Athena's war crimes.
Ares - cute but psycho.
Aphrodite - the OG Regina George.
The Myrmidons - The Greek mythology equivalent of Navy Seals
Aeneas - just kind of there.
Thetis - Achilles' sea nymph mommy
Poseidon - petty, vengeful, likes to play with dolphins in his free time (this has never been scientifically proven, it's just a theory)
Hephaestus - got cheated on by Aphrodite and tried to assault Athena, and for that, he will forever be on my shit list.
Hermes - in charge of Mount Olympus' post office.
Artemis - a cool virgin who likes to hunt.
Apollo - doesn't know the meaning of consent.
Zeus - doesn't know the meaning of consent.
Should I review the Odyssey? Was Odysseus the victim of a curse, or did he just not want to go home to his wife? 'Lost at sea' is the Greek mythology equivalent of 'going out for cigarettes.'
Greek mythology is unhinged, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I have a confession to make: I love the movie Troy. Critics make fun of it. Historians treat it like a redheaded stepchild. I don't care. I love it. My opinion has nothing to do with a skirt-clad Brad Pitt. ...more
Dr. White named her Tokitae, which in the Chinook language means 'Bright day, pretty colors.' The Miami Seaquarium renamed her Lolita after the heroinDr. White named her Tokitae, which in the Chinook language means 'Bright day, pretty colors.' The Miami Seaquarium renamed her Lolita after the heroine of Vladimir Nabokov's novel. Lummi Nation, who consider the Southern Resident orcas their relatives, named her Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut, which means 'daughter of Sk'aliCh'elh.' Sk'aliCh'elh is the name of a village on Penn Cove where she last saw her family.
57-year-old Lolita, or Toki, as she is affectionately called, passed away on August 18th. She was the last surviving Southern Resident in captivity. She was a member of the L pod and the presumed daughter of L25 Ocean Sun, who is still alive and over 90 years old. This beautiful whale touched the hearts of many with her gentle nature and unbreakable spirit.
Children. Adults. Scientists. Environmentalists. Philanthropists. Activists. Orca enthusiasts. Lummi Nation. People from all over the world. They were all united in one goal: to relocate Lolita to a sea sanctuary in her home waters of the Salish Sea. Sadly, she died before the plans were finalized. Lolita's remains were cremated and flown to Bellingham, Washington, where they were delivered to the Lummi Nation tribe. In a way, Lolita DID come home. It was not in the way we wanted, but she came home. Several ceremonies were held in her honor. I am incredibly touched by the love people had for her. Her memory lives on.
Salmon-eating Southern Residents are very family-oriented. Both males and females stay with their mothers their whole lives. Lolita/Tokitae never forgot her family's calls. For decades and decades, while being imprisoned in the world's smallest orca tank, she continued to make L pod's unique vocalizations. Songs her mother taught her.
This isn't in the book. It's something I had to write. Toki deserves to be remembered. I'm sure James Herriot wouldn't have minded. For more information, visit my blog: https://mermaidmusings7.tumblr.com
All Creatures Great and Small is a lovely book. It's a must-read for animal lovers. Mr. Herriot is one of my heroes, along with Jane Goodall, Ingrid Visser, Alexandra Morton, Eva Saulitis, and Monika Wieland Shields. His intelligence, kindness, and humor shine through on every page.
“If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans.”
This is such a feel-good book. It's much more uplifting than I expected. The storytelling is *chef's kiss.*
Yet what made him trail down that hillside every day in all weathers? Why had he filled the last years of those two old horses with peace and beauty? Why had he given them a final ease and comfort which he had withheld from himself? It could only be love.
I've encountered many animal species in my life. I've been surrounded by cats and fish all my life. It sounds weird, but it's true. My mom has always been obsessed with cats, I've always been into fish, and my dad had no choice but to go along with it. It's hard to pick my favorite species. Great white sharks, orcas, cats, squirrels, and bunnies are probably at the top of the list. I'll quit yapping and show some of my pictures.
My uncle took me fishing when I was a child. He did all the fishing while I just hung around, observing. During one such trip, I had a fishing rod in My uncle took me fishing when I was a child. He did all the fishing while I just hung around, observing. During one such trip, I had a fishing rod in my hand but didn't want to catch anything. The thought of catching a live fish was unbearable. I was a fearful and imaginative child, prone to melodrama. And then it happened. I felt a strong tug on the rod. It was the worst experience of my life. I just stood there, frozen, unable to reel in the fish. My location felt like Amity Island, and the catch was no different from Jaws (I told you I was melodramatic). I was scared and felt sorry for the fish at the same time. Worst of all, people were staring at me.
It was not my destiny to be a master fisherman. I wish Captain Ahab had come to the same realization as I did. His pride ultimately led to his downfall.
Moby Dick is the ultimate tale of man versus nature. What could be more formidable than a sperm whale, the ocean's largest predator? A being so powerful that not even the mighty orca, the ocean's most skillful killer, can defeat it. Who would dare hunt such a creature?
The name orca comes from the Latin phrase Orcinus orca, which translates as 'of the kingdom of the dead.' Great white sharks have the word 'great' as part of their name. Then there are sperm whales. Couldn't they think of something more dignified? I understand the reason behind their naming, but I still find it ridiculous. Dark humor - instead of calling them sperm whales, they could have named them waxy whales or oil lamp whales.
Whaling was a highly lucrative business. Bloody and dangerous, but lucrative nonetheless. Told from the sailor Ishmael's perspective, the story follows Ahab, captain of the whaling ship Pequod, who embarks on a quest for vengeance against a giant sperm whale who maimed him.
Ahab is a man who doesn't know when to quit. I would have noped out of there after the first encounter, but that's not Ahab. He's not like other girls. He wants to kill Moby Dick, no matter the cost. Despite the risks, Ahab's ego fuels his dangerous quest. He is consumed by his desire to defeat the white whale.
I have mixed emotions about this novel. While I acknowledge that it's an important piece of literature, filled with metaphors and double entendres, it's not my cup of peppermint tea.
Why was the whale called Dick? He's just swimming in the ocean, snacking on squid, sharks, and fish, minding his business. He sunk a few ships, but only because he was defending himself. Ahab is the 'Dick' of the story.
I find the real story of Moby Dick much more fascinating than the fictional one. Moby Dick was inspired by a real-life white sperm whale named Mocha Dick, whose story is both fascinating and tragic.
Is the ocean a harsh mistress, or are some people just foolish?
My advice would be to check the weather forecast before going sailing, avoid hunting giant marine mammals, wear sunscreen, and listen to Bobby Darin's "Beyond the Sea."
She went then to the gardens of Lórien and lay down to sleep; but though she seemed to sleep, her spirit indeed departed from her body, and passed i She went then to the gardens of Lórien and lay down to sleep; but though she seemed to sleep, her spirit indeed departed from her body, and passed in silence to the halls of Mandos. The maidens of Estë tended the body of Míriel, and it remained unwithered; but she did not return. Then Finwë lived in sorrow; and he went often to the gardens of Lórien, and sitting beneath the silver willows beside the body of his wife he called her by her names. But it was unavailing; and alone in all the Blessed Realm he was deprived of joy. After a while he went to Lórien no more.
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(Credit goes to Elena Kukanova. Check out her Tolkien art, it's amazing)
To be honest, The Silmarillion is not an easy read. There's Valinor, Númenor, Middle-earth, creation of the world, music battles (I am not joking), the Valar, the Maiar; Vanyar, Noldor, and Teleri elves, men, orcs, beasts, wizards, dragons, and jewels.
It was worth it for the rich lore, doomed romances, and scheming dark lords.
If you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings books and/or movies and wish to explore the lore in-depth, this book is perfect for you. Tolkien takes us back to the beginning, where we learn about the creation of the world and The Ainur (also called The Valar), who were beings above everyone, second only to the Ilúvatar. The book takes us through the Years of the Lamps, Years of the Trees, the First Age, and the Sixth Age, providing a comprehensive understanding of the Lord of the Rings universe.
*spoilers*
We meet Tolkien's most powerful villain. No, not Sauron. Morgoth (also called Melkor). The most powerful Ainur/Valar. We learn more about Valinor (Valinor is where Frodo and Bilbo depart at the end of the Lord of the Rings). Valinor is the home of the Valar (Ainur). We learn about the destruction of the Two Trees of Valinor by Morgoth and Ungoliant.
We follow the fates of The Children of Ilúvatar - Elves and Men. We witness the kin slaying between the Noldor and the Teleri elves. We travel to Númenor, the greatest kingdom of men. For those that don't know- the first king of Númenor was Elros, the twin brother of Elrond. Unlike his brother Elrond, Elros chose to be mortal. He became a great king of men, and it was through his line that Aragorn was born 62 generations later. Much like Atlantis, Númenor was destroyed and sunk beneath the ocean.
At the heart of the book is the story of the Silmarils. Fëanor, the Elven King of the Noldor, crafted the Silmarils. These magical jewels contained the essence of the Two Trees of Valinor. Fëanor asked his niece, Galadriel, the princess of Noldor, for a few strands of hair to put in The Silmarils, but she refused him. If you remember, she granted the request to Gimli in the Fellowship of the Ring.
The Silmarils, beautiful as they were, were the cause of all the drama in the book. Morgoth stole the jewels and placed them in his crown. For thousands of years, the fate of many heroes was determined by the Silmarils.
Of all the stories, my favorite were the ones involving Beren, Lúthien, Melian, and Thingol. And, of course, my fictional husbands - Glorfindel and Finrod Felagund. Yes, I am allowed to have more than one fictional husband. How could Tolkien create such incredible characters like Aragorn, Faramir, Legolas, Éomer, Beren, Glorfindel, and Finrod and not expect his readers to fall in love with them? Glorfindel was a powerful elf from Gondolin who appeared in The Silmarillion and the Fellowship of the Ring (some of his scenes in the movie version were given to Arwen). Glorfindel was killed fighting a Balrog but was later reincarnated and sent back to Middle-earth. Finrod Felagund was an Elven king and brother of Galadriel. He was known for being honorable and was often referred to as "Friend of Men." Even though he knew it meant certain death, he agreed to help the mortal Beren in his quest. He was killed by Sauron's werewolves.
Farewell sweet earth and northern sky, for ever blest, since here did lie and here with lissom limbs did run beneath the Moon, beneath the Sun, Lúthien Tinúviel more fair than mortal tongue can tell. Though all to ruin fell the world and were dissolved and backward hurled unmade into the old abyss, yet were its making good, for this— the dusk, the dawn, the earth, the sea— that Lúthien for a time should be.
Beren and Lúthien's love story is the heart of the book. Before diving into their tale, let me give you a little background on Lúthien's parents. Melian, like Sauron, was a powerful Maia. The Maiar are more powerful than Elves but weaker than the Valar. Thingol, also known as Elwë, was a Sindar elf. One day, while traveling through the forest, he met Melian and instantly fell in love with her. Melian felt the same way. It was unheard of for a Maia to fall in love with an elf, and it would never happen again. They ruled the kingdom of Doriath together and had a daughter, Lúthien Tinúviel, the most beautiful of all the Children of Ilúvatar. Lúthien fell in love with a mortal man named Beren, but Thingol was furious and forbade their marriage. He eventually changed his mind but on one condition: Beren would have to bring him a Silmaril. It was an impossible task.
Beren embarked on the perilous journey with Galadriel's brother, Finrod Felagund. Unfortunately, Sauron and his minions captured them and killed Finrod. Lúthien, who followed them along with her faithful companion Huan, a wolfhound, confronted Sauron. She and Huan defeated him and managed to take one of the Silmarils. However, Beren succumbed to his injuries, and Lúthien died of grief. Ilúvatar took pity on her and gave her a choice - she and Beren could be revived and return to Middle-earth. But there was a catch - she had to give up her immortality. Lúthien agreed to come back to Middle-earth as a mortal. Lúthien and Beren were the great-grandparents of Elrond and Elros and the great-great-grandparents of Arwen. Arwen shared Lúthien's physical appearance as well as her fate. She, too, would choose a mortal life and marry a man.
King Thingol was murdered. Melian returned to Valinor without her husband and daughter. Tolkien's grave has 'Beren' inscribed on it, while his wife Edith's has 'Lúthien.'
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Thingol and Melian (credit to whoever made the beautiful artwork)
I hope we get a movie or TV series adaption someday. As of now, no one has managed to procure the rights to the book. I hope that changes. Imagine watching this incredible lore play out before your eyes. But then again, maybe not. Major film studios tend to ruin every book they get their hands on. ...more
Beren and Lúthien have the most beautiful love story. Niënor and Túrin Turambar have the most effed up love story. Andreth and Aegnor have the most tragic love story. They live rent free in my head.
Andreth was a mortal maiden. Aegnor was an elf lord of the Noldor and the brother of Angrod, Finrod Felagund, and Galadriel. Andreth fell in love with the fair-haired Aegnor. Aegnor reciprocated her feelings, though he knew he could never act upon them. He was an immortal elf, she was a mortal woman. Then there was also the issue of war. Elves didn't marry during the time of war. He could not marry her. He did, however, vow not to take any other bride. They both believed Andreth would be the first one to die. That would prove incorrect, as Aegnor perished in a battle. Ironically, Andreth outlived him.
Andreth's conversation with Aegnor's brother, Finrod, is the best part of the book. Andreth doubts Aegnor ever loved her. Finrod reassures her he did. They have a fascinating conversation about life, mortality, fate, and love. According to Tolkien's notes, Aegnor refused to be re-embodied or go to Valinor after his death. Instead, he chose to remain in the Halls of Mandos, because he didn't want to live in a world without Andreth. Though we never find out, I'd like to believe they reunited in the afterlife.
Angrod and Finrod died as well, leaving Galadriel the only surviving sibling....more
Although that summer 1973 expedition was only the first of many to Johnstone Strait whale country, it stands out in my memory. It was a period of di Although that summer 1973 expedition was only the first of many to Johnstone Strait whale country, it stands out in my memory. It was a period of discovery and excitement when I met for the first time the true king of the sea, the whale called killer.
Just an FYI… There are several versions of this book - the 1981 version, the 1990 version, the 2013 version, and the 2019 version.
I'll try to make this as concise as possible. I tend to go overboard in my quest to spread information.
Killer whales are the largest member of the dolphin family. They have the most gyrified brain on the planet, according to the gyrencephaly index. They have a highly developed paralimbic system (responsible for processing emotions). They are among the few species capable of recognizing themselves in the mirror, which indicates that they possess self-awareness.
In the Pacific Northwest, there are three ecotypes of killer whales. Resident killer whales feed strictly on fish, particularly salmon. Transients hunt marine mammals. Offshore killer whales hunt sharks.
I've always been a Transient/Offshore type of gal. I LOVE Southern and Northern Residents. I really do. But there's something borderline psychotic epic about mammal-eating orcas. I like to think of them as Hannibal Lecters of the sea. They will attack and kill great white sharks just to eat their livers. They turn the shark upside down to induce tonic immobility. Then, they drown the shark and remove the liver with almost surgical precision. They hunt Gray and Humpback calves by separating them from their mothers and ramming until they drown (usually only the tongue is eaten). They catapult seals into the air for fun.
Killer whales have a fierce reputation – and deservedly so. Some sailors think of them as 'the assholes of the ocean.' Killer whales are apex predators, but they can also be kind and remarkably friendly.
*spoilers*
A marine biologist once observed three dolphins swimming with a pod of mammal-eating killer whales in British Columbia. A pilot whale calf was seen swimming with killer whales in Iceland. There have been numerous reports of killer whales saving people and dogs from drowning. A pod of killer whales, called 'Killers of Eden' worked with human whalers to hunt baleen whales. The leader of Killers of Eden was a male orca called 'Old Tom.' These events took place in New South Wales between 1840 and 1930. (Old Tom's skeleton is on display in the Eden Killer Whale Museum).
Alexandra Morton wrote in her book, Listening to Whales : Years of Shamu shows have conditioned the public to think of killer whales as pool toys. Resident whales, with their matriarchal societies and fish-eating ways, dovetail nicely with that false image. The Transients, however, are nothing like Shamu. While they can be gentle and patient, these orcas are responsible for some of the most violent kills in the waterborne world. That doesn’t make them bad. That’s just the way they are.
In the Eastern North Pacific Ocean, there are three distinct ecotypes : Resident, Transient, and Offshore.
Killer whales are the ultimate mama's boys and girls. They live in close-knit matriarchal societies. In most cases, adult offspring never leave their mother's pod. The only time a young orca leaves its mother's side is to mate or socialize. That is especially true for the Southern and Northern Residents. If a male killer whale loses his mother, he will be 'taken in' by his sister, niece, aunt, or grandmother. If he doesn't have a close female relative, his chances of survival are slim.
An interesting little tidbit - killer whales, pilot whales, beluga whales, narwhals, and humans are the only species on earth that experience menopause.
Residents and Transients separated genetically over 750,000 years ago. They have different languages, food preferences, family structures, lifestyles, and rituals. Seaworld has created hybrids that don't exist in the wild. Kalina, the first 'Baby Shamu' was 50% Southern Resident and 50% Icelandic (North Atlantic Type 1). Her mother Katina was captured off the coast of Skarðsfjara, Iceland. Her father Winston was captured in the infamous 1970 Penn Cove (Washington) roundup. He was captured with Lolita (the last surviving captive Southern Resident and the second oldest orca in captivity). Kalina's son Keto killed his trainer Alexis Martinez in 2009.
Reminds me of the line from Jurassic Park: 'Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.' And I use the term 'scientists' loosely here.
It was depressing. I didn't want to be there, and they sure didn't want to be there. At first, there had been some interplay. The bull was curious. As I swam along the bottom, he'd come over and have a good look, and occasionally, I'd follow him around, which he didn't seem to mind. But after a few months, when I went swimming, the whales would avoid me. They'd gone through a lot. I began to feel it was wrong to keep them captive, to put them in a situation, not of their own choosing, where, sooner or later, they are doomed."
On July 16th, 1964, at approximately five years old, Moby Doll was captured from the waters of Saturna Island in Washington. The original plan was to kill a wild orca to create a life-sized, anatomically correct model for the aquarium's British Columbia hall. The fishermen decided not to kill the unfortunate young orca. They harpooned, shot, and dragged him to Vancouver. The voyage lasted sixteen hours (which is freaking barbaric). Moby Doll helped change the public's perception of the species from fearsome, vicious monsters to intelligent, playful, gentle giants. The resilient youngster died after 87 days in captivity.
When Moby Doll was caught and while the pod waited on the surface some distance away, the harpooned whale uttered "shrill whistles so intense that they could easily be heard above the surface of the water 100 yards away."
Ted Griffin, the aquarium owner and entrepreneur, saw dollar signs in his eyes. In 1965, he purchased a Northern Resident killer whale called “Namu.” Namu was 'accidentally' caught in a fishermen's net. He became the biggest tourist attraction in Seattle. Ted wanted to find a mate for his star performer. He captured Shamu from the waters of Puget Sound.
The bull Namu had issued "loud, strident screams" regularly from his Rich Cove pen during his internment in 1965-66. At times, his cries were picked up by passing Puget Sound whales, who apparently returned the sounds.
Shamu was a Southern Resident and member of the J Pod. Her mother was harpooned and killed in front of her. The traumatized little female orca was moved to Namu's pen in Puget Sound. The two didn't get along. Shamu hated Griffin and the rest of her captors. She was sold to Seaworld San Diego in 1965. She became the first superstar of Seaworld. Gradually, her health deteriorated, and she died of a uterus infection in 1975.
Lolita, also known as Tokitae and Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut, is the last surviving Southern Resident in captivity. She was captured in the waters of Penn Cove, near Puget Sound, Washington in 1970. She is held at the Miami Seaquarium in Florida. Her tank mate, Hugo, died in 1980 after repeatedly banging his head against the side of their tank. Members of the Pacific Northwest Lummi tribe are fighting to bring Lolita home to the Salish Sea. The Lummi Nation refers to the local orcas as Qwe 'lhol mechen, which means 'our relatives who live under the sea' or 'the people under the waves' (please correct me if I got this wrong) Lolita is believed to be the daughter of L25 Ocean Sun (born around 1928). She also had an older sister named Tsunami, who passed away in 1982.
Corky, also known as Corky II, is the last surviving Northern Resident in captivity. She was captured in 1969 in Pender Harbour, British Columbia. Corky is the oldest orca in captivity. She is a member of the A5 pod, A23 matriline. Her mother A23 Stripe died in 2000. She had a younger brother, Okisollo, who died in 2001. Her pod currently consists of her younger sister Ripple, younger brother Fife, niece Midsummer, great-nephew Fern, great-niece Eliot and little Ne'nakw. Corky is held at Seaworld San Diego.
In 1976, orca captures were banned in America. Marine parks shifted their efforts to the land of fire and ice – Iceland. Over 50 young orcas were captured from Icelandic waters and sold to marine parks across the globe (mostly Seaworld). Some of the most well-known names include Keiko (the star of Free Willy), Tilikum (the star of Blackfish), Katina (the long-reigning matriarch of Seaworld Orlando), Kasatka (the late matriarch of Seaworld San Diego, who had an 'incident' with her trainer in 2006, as seen in the documentary Blackfish) and Kiska (the last remaining captive orca in Canada). Russia is the only place in the world that still allows wild captures of whales and dolphins. They sell them to marine parks in China.
Famous Southern Residents (wild and captive) : Moby Doll, Shamu, Lolita, Hugo (there's a great video on youtube called Hugo's Story), Granny, Ocean Sun, Tahlequah (who made worldwide headlines when she was spotted carrying her dead calf for 17 days), Luna (there's a documentary about Luna called The Whale, narrated by Ryan Reynolds)
Famous Northern Residents (wild and captive) : Namu, Corky, Tsitika, Eve, Sharky, Top Notch, Springer (the only orca to have been successfully re-integrated back into the wild)
Famous Transients (wild) : Raksha and her five daughters – Tread, Akela, Sedna, Quiver, Sol, and granddaughter Tsakani. Esperanza, her daughter, and grandsons. Sidney, her son, and two daughters. Local celebrity Chainsaw. Lonesome George. Artemis and her children. Harbeson, the oldest male orca (he's over 60!)
Famous Icelandic North Atlantic Type 1 (captive) : Keiko, Tilikum, Katina, Kasatka, Kiska, Gudrun
166 wild orcas have been taken from the waters of Washington State, British Columbia, and Iceland. Of those 166 orcas, 32 were transferred to various Seaworld parks. Seaworld has owned 18 Icelanders (North Atlantic Type 1), 10 Southern Residents, 2 Northern Residents, and 2 Transients. Only five of those orcas are still alive today - Corky (Northern Resident held at Seaworld San Diego), Lolita (Southern Resident held at the Miami Seaquarium), Katina (Icelandic, held at Seaworld Orlando), Ulises (Icelandic, held at Seaworld San Diego) and Kiska (Icelandic, the last captive orca in Canada, held at Marineland Ontario). Lolita and Kiska live in terrible conditions.
There isn't a cetologist on this planet who hasn't read Orca: The Whale Called Killer. This book was a game-changer. It still holds up.
The older editions are quite dated. Make sure you have the most recent version of the book.
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(Researcher comforts a bull orca stranded near Tofino in 1976)...more
Edgar Allan Poe is one of the OG's when it comes to macabre literature. His name alone screams angst.
I heed not that my earthly lot Hath-little of Earth in it- That years of love have been forgot In the hatred of a minute: I mourn not that the desolate Are happier, sweet, than I, But that you sorrow for my fate Who am a passer by.
In spring of youth it was my lot To haunt of the wide earth a spot The which I could not love the less- So lovely was the loneliness Of a wild lake, with black rock bound, And the tall pines that tower'd around.
Lo! Death has reared himself a throne In a strange city lying alone Far down within the dim West, Where the good and the bad and the worst and the best Have gone to their eternal rest.
And travellers, now, within that valley, Through the red-litten windows see Vast forms, that move fantastically To a discordant melody, While, lie a ghastly rapid river, Through the pale door A hideous throng rush out forever And laugh-but smile no more.
Persephone's Pomegranate
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