When I was introduced to artist/author Larry Johnson's Horseman series, I couldn't help but praise it (see Nov '23 post). Truly, the next anthropomorphic episode couldn't come fast enough. Well, #6 has arrived, and it not only captures the rich surrealism of the previous issues, but exceeds them with an enchanting, pantomimed experiment called "Blossom."
"Blossom" is cut from the same ardent cloth as Johnson's excellent, dark-fantasy novel, The Mayfly (see March 11, 2024 post), establishing trysts that are off-kilter yet idyllic.
As to the story's plot, Johnson's nomadic protagonist meets a seductive, limbed plant that simulates human, female features. As a result of cavorting with the being, Horseman becomes physically altered, at one point sprouting amber, horse-headed pollywogs, which are in turn nurtured by the seducer's diligent acolytes. The peculiar process prompts Horseman to sprout roses, which in turn spawn pink, winged colts, in an evident play upon the Pegasus myth.
It's a matter of one extraordinary transformation ushering the next, each with strange and fruitful consequences, in what becomes an allegorical essay on life. Johnson's vibrant and intricate imagery strengthens the proceedings, ensuring that no matter how one interprets the fable, one will want more.
I, for one, certainly want more. Horseman's ruminative possibilities are as exciting as they're endless, and that Johnson speaks volumes without an ounce of caption cements his status as a primo, visual maestro.
If interested in purchasing Horseman #6, email Mr. Johnson at LewBrown1@verizon.net; he'll be sure to get back to you in little time at all, with all the details you need.
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