The pattern of the Genet fur delights and fascinates the human eye, yet the markings serve at least the dull purpose of camouflage and specific identity - possibly also maturity.
No doubt that to another Genet a mass of information is transmitted, that we can only guess at. We humans can design experiments to prove our theory ... and probably get it wrong!
Why do we so admire, possibly covet, the coats of other animals?
Why, indeed, do I feel compelled to draw?
Clearly "that I can" merely feeds my own vanity.
In comparison with the fine fur, resplendent plumage or dazzling scales of other creatures, humankind, the 'Naked Ape' is singularly unattractive.
The evolution of human mind has provided a plethora of engineering and artistic feats of visceral accomplishment - but our sacrifice has been our animality ... our grace. |
