Vampyroteuthis Infernalis
A Treatise, with a Report by the Institut Scientifique de Recherche Paranaturaliste
How far apart are humans from animals—even the "vampire squid from hell"? Playing the scientist/philosopher/provocateur, Vilém Flusser uses this question as a springboard to dive into a literal and a philosophical ocean. Part scientific treatise, part spoof, part philosophical discourse, part fable, Vampyroteuthis Infernalis gives its author ample room to ruminate on human—and nonhuman—life. Considering the human condition along with the vampire squid/octopus condition seems appropriate because "we are both products of an absurd coincidence . . . we are poorly programmed beings full of defects," Flusser writes.
Vilém Flusser (1920–1991) was born in Prague; emigrated to Brazil, where he taught philosophy and wrote a daily newspaper column; and later moved to France. Among his many books that have been translated into English are Does Writing Have a Future?, Into the Universe of Technical Images, and Writings, all from Minnesota.
Louis Bec is an artist who lives and works in Sorgues, France. He is the founder of the Institut Scientifique de Recherche Paranaturaliste.
Valentine A. Pakis is adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.
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