Brenna
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
I just have a question about the sacred animals. What would you say is the real-world example of the "great green bird" used to represent the Mother of Summer? And what is a dog-fox for the Son of Autumn? Fictional animal or their-world name for an our-world animal? What qualities of birds do you personally see as representing the feminine (blue jay, green bird) and canids for the masculine? Thanks :)
Lois McMaster Bujold
The 5GU is not our world, so I can have them eating potatoes if I want, I just haven't so far. I have so far also resisted "mahogany" for the typical skin color of Cedonians, although it's the perfect term. So my "great green bird" is probably some sort of parrot.
A dog-fox is actually an our-world term; it just means a male fox. As contrasted with a vixen, a female fox.
The sex, not the species, of the animal is usually matched with the supposed gender of the god/ess. So one might well have a male gray parrot for the Father sometime. Color coded where possible -- if they can obtain something close or evocative.
And if the local temple can't afford those fancy flourishes, five kittens with different colored ribbons around their necks can also do the job. It's apparent from the results that the gods aren't fussy.
Ta, L.
The 5GU is not our world, so I can have them eating potatoes if I want, I just haven't so far. I have so far also resisted "mahogany" for the typical skin color of Cedonians, although it's the perfect term. So my "great green bird" is probably some sort of parrot.
A dog-fox is actually an our-world term; it just means a male fox. As contrasted with a vixen, a female fox.
The sex, not the species, of the animal is usually matched with the supposed gender of the god/ess. So one might well have a male gray parrot for the Father sometime. Color coded where possible -- if they can obtain something close or evocative.
And if the local temple can't afford those fancy flourishes, five kittens with different colored ribbons around their necks can also do the job. It's apparent from the results that the gods aren't fussy.
Ta, L.
More Answered Questions
Matthia
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
Regarding World of Five Gods: What is your relationship with theology? When building the theology of this universe, how much of it feels intentional, how much feels inspired? As a theology nerd, I'm ready to read a Karen Armstrong-level text analysis on the history and practical applications of the Five Gods.
Andie
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
Good morning, I have a Komarr question next! I just wanted to check if I am interpreting correctly that men have "Ser" in front of their names, like Mr or Sir (unless they are Dr). It seems that women have "madame" ? Such an interesting world building detail you included here. Just curious, if you have a chance to reply. Thank you!
Lisa Feld
asked
Lois McMaster Bujold:
So, in GJRQ, what are Miles's top three? And which is the one he thinks Cordelia doesn't know about?
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