Description: Metamorphosis is the result of a lifetime of biological research seeking to penetrate through the phenomena to the formative principles that have shaped them. Following Goethe's participatory method, and drawing on his observations on a number of continents, Andreas Suchantke shows how the development and evolution of plants and animals can be understood in terms of metamorphosis. Through his eyes, we come to see evolution as a dynamic process that unfolds on a far more fundamental level than Darwin's natural selection. In the age of stem-cell research, Suchantke's insights into the formation of organisms as integrated wholes offer a much-needed complement to the findings of conventional genetics and microbiology.
Beautifully illustrated by the author's drawings and color photographs. This masterly work offers a rich, dynamic and deeply meaningful understanding of organic life.
Brief description: Norman Skillen was born in Belfast in 1950, and grew up in the nearby town of Holywood. He has a degree in ecology, but has mostly been involved in the arts, first in Waldorf teacher training in Germany, and then as a drama teacher at Constantia Waldorf School in Cape Town. He is also something of a singer, actor, storyteller and has worked extensively as a translator. Inspiration comes from nature, and from exploring its relation to imagination. Jazz will also hit the spot. Contributing author to the Life Righting Collective's anthology This Is How It Is: True Stories from South Africa.
Review Quotes:
"I actually bought the book (Metamorphosis) about a year ago. When I saw how big it was, it seemed beyond my powers. I gave it as a present to the biology teacher at Summerfield W. Sch. I felt bad that something so rich in insight wasn't available when I was younger and would have been able to read it. Last Christmas I unwittingly bought it again. Shortly thereafter, completely out of the blue, I had a heart attack. (Sorry to say.) Now, at least, recovering, I have lots of time to read Metamorphosis. ... It is fantastic! I am filled with such an interest in the natural world! Every ant, lady bug, leaf, etc. fills me with interest and joy! The beginning of healing the earth has to be our interest in her. I know of no better teacher than this book....
"I just wanted to share this with you. I have been telling many people how special this book is. This book is truly an "eye opener"!"---- Roger Lundberg