NPR's Book of the Day In 'Anima Rising,' Gustav Klimt encounters a young woman under strange circumstances
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May 29, 2025 Set in 1911 Vienna, the narrative unfolds as painter Gustav Klimt encounters a stunning young woman by the river, prompting a blend of art and enigma. Christopher Moore discusses this pivotal moment in his novel, exploring Klimt's relationships with women and drawing in insights from figures like Freud and Jung. The story also connects a mysterious instance from 1799, weaving history with fiction and touching on the societal tensions that shaped the era. Expect an intriguing mix of mystery, art, and psychological exploration.
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Klimt's Strange River Encounter
- In 1911 Vienna, Gustav Klimt finds a nude, beautiful woman at the river's edge and sketches her instead of calling for help.
- This strange encounter sparks the historical novel Anima Rising by Christopher Moore.
The Mysterious Woman's Nature
- The woman Klimt finds resembles his ethereal and dreamlike female paintings, compelling him to sketch her in real life.
- She is feral and lost her memory, indicating she is not quite of this world.
Wally the Model's Plight
- Wally, Klimt's model, waits outside his studio after eviction, hoping for work and shelter.
- Klimt's studio was a freestanding house with a garden where Wally seeks refuge.