Something Else

Explore the enthralling pages of an excursion captured in the book 'Something Else' by David Parkyn, published by Piedog Press. This paperback edition, measuring 150 x 210 mm, consists of 388 captivating pages. First published on December 1, 2015, this poignant narrative recounts a daring expedition aimed at locating an elusive iceberg seen off the South Island coast, buried deep within Freemans Bay. As the narrative unfolds, readers are transported to a city grappling with drought and unpredictable weather patterns. The protagonist, an artist facing the demolition of his creative sanctuary, embarks on a deep introspective journey while examining his past and the shadows of his artistic obsession. Dive into the rich tapestry of Auckland in the 1960s, where themes of art, politics, obsession, and friendship converge. This book isn't just a story; it is a vivid exploration of the complexities of modern art movements and personal turmoil. 'Something Else' is hailed by reviewers for its classical language and heartfelt reflections on hip culture. Jacquie Fahey and Barry Southam praise its compelling narrative and unforgettable characters, appealing to those interested in art history, personal narratives, and a new perspective on life. Immerse yourself in this epic literary journey today!

Author: David Parkyn Publisher: Piedog Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 150 x 210 mm
Pages: 388
Publication Date: 01-12-2015

Being the record of an expedition to locate and capture an iceberg seen to be somewhere off the coast of the South Island, last seen buried deep within Freemans Bay... Overlooking an old boatyard, in a city threatened by drought, in a country wracked by unusual weather patterns, in a building marked for demolition, a fugitive from art contemplates a blank canvas, a jar of old brushes and a fresh page in his journal. As he surveys the grounds on which he's lived and worked 'a mutinous crew' conspire to take him on a voyage of salvage and recovery, into inner city Auckland of the 'sixties to revisit the deaths which he believes his early obsession is implicated. A voyage to illuminate a looming personal and global disaster, to navigate the shoals if art and politics, obsession and friendship, and the shifting shores of modern art movements. REVIEWS - SOMETHING ELSE ‘A book to savour.’ Rowan Gibbs (E.S.A.W. Books) ‘One reason the book is remarkable is the language. It is classical but manages to describe hip better than hip. He gets the hope inherent in hippie culture. It is heartfelt writing to communicate that wondrous belief in a new way of living. Now that the threat to individual freedom is so apparent, it is a good time to do a recall.' Jacqueline Fahey (Something for the Birds; Before I Forget; Cutting Loose) 'An amazing book. The use of language most impressive, especially what for a better word I'll call free association by the characters and the narrator. So much I was familiar with e.g. the art arguments took me back to my uni days when I hung out with the fine arts crowd at Ilam. Great characters. Oh boy, what an epic.' Barry Southam (Footprints on a Gravel Road, Mixed Singles)