Metaphoria

This “essay” has few words.  It was not meant to.  In order to keep my sanity during the move last month, I created a series of graphics, based on the Star Trek episode, Darmok, concerning the first encounter between the crew of the Enterprise and the Children of Tama.

The Tamarians, it turned out, spoke by citing metaphors, metaphors unknown to the Federation.  On this basis did the story hinge.

I took a shot at interpreting the metaphors graphically.  Of course, what I see in the graphics and what you see will no doubt vary.

Be forewarned:  there are 27 graphics.  

If you wish to see a larger version of any of the pieces, simply click on it.  They were created in 800 pixels by 800 pixels.

Temba, his arms wide.

Rai and Jiri, at Lungha.   Rai of Lowani.  Lowani under two moons.  Jiri of Umbaya.  Umbaya of crossed roads.  At Lungha.  Lungha, her sky gray.

Kadir, beneath Mo Moteh

The river Temarc, in winter

Shaka, when the walls fell

Zima and Bakor, at Anso

Mirab, his sails unfurled

Darmok and Jalad, at Tanagra

Kiteo, his eyes closed

Chenza, at court, the court of silence

Temba, his arms wide

Uzani, his army, with fists open

His army, with fists closed

Sokath, his eyes uncovered

Kailash, when it rises

Darmok, on the ocean

Kiazi’s children, their faces wet

Tanagra, on the ocean

Darmok, at Tanagra

Jalad, on the ocean

Jalad, at Tanagra

The beast, at Tanagra

Darmok and Jalad, on the ocean

Zinda, his face black, his eyes red

Callimas, at Bahar

Kira, at Bashi

Picard and Dathon, at El-Adrel

Temba, at rest