Nostradormouse
The Illustrations
The following illustrations represent a scene from each chapter of the book. They are included here in their full-size versions. The last illustration is not included in the book, but is published here as a bonus feature. Click on the thumbnail image to see the full size version.
Prologue
The hooded mouse treads a solitary path;
The pack-mind catches the scent of prey.
The largest shall bow to the smallest's will,
And the youngest will identify the prophet.
Chapter One
The tail begins to grow;
From nine, only eight shall pass through.
One shall never reach the up-streamer,
And the smallest shall begin a big sleep.
Chapter Two
The prophet's words are disbelieved;
The restless one shall make a fateful decision.
In the centre of things, one barren sleeper
Shall be strengthened by rumours of spring.
Chapter Three
Friendships are made amongst mist;
Much trust is put into rumour,
The philanthropic herb is pillow-bound,
And the serpent takes root in readiness..
Chapter Four
A golden crown alights the arbour-king;
The giver of Nostrums, in silent gratitude,
Receives his title from an unexpected quarter,
And resumes the path that destiny has chosen.
Chapter Five
Across the tree-tops leaps the dray-dweller;
As the feathered bard spreads wide his song,
So each visionary phrase becomes valid
And his wisdom is wisely employed.
Chapter Six
Eight horns herald the new world's arrival;
As insults are hurled twixt sky and earth
The wise swimmer returns to his birthplace
And sacred waters are summoned to the well.
Chapter Seven
A great migration gathers pace beside new banks;
During this journey a new partnership is made,
Comforting words are overheard
And four seeds come close to full term.
Chapter Eight
From North, South, East and West they come;
The dormant one quenches an ageless thirst
A generous gift proves most fortuitous
And the end of eternity arrives, bathed in light.
Chapter Nine
Four directions has The Great Woods;
Four Branches has the ancient tree,
Four seasons burst upon the earth
And bring an end to eternity.
Epilogue/Cover
The tree returns to life; the tail ends with a point,
Rumours worm their way into The Great Woods,
Families are reunited; a lost couple find their way
And the prophet reveals a great bear in the stars.
