In a Canadian Canoe; The Nine Muses Minus One, and Other Stories

In this lively assortment the narrator invites the listener to drift down a quiet river in a Canadian canoe, cataloguing the essentials for a perfect glide—cushions, pipes, matches, and a spare spirit for idle contemplation. With a tongue‑in‑cheek blend of philosophy and parody, he muses on art, music, and the stubborn habits of nature, turning ordinary scenes of college backs and swan songs into a gentle meditation on how we steer our lives. The prose rolls like water itself, calm yet occasionally punctuated by witty asides that keep the tone bright and reflective.

The collection widens beyond the river, presenting a series of short pieces that re‑imagine the nine Muses, each tale skewering a classical trope with everyday absurdity—a cursed pig, a stubborn camel, a heart of tin, and more. Interspersed are whimsical sketches such as “The Celestial Grocery” and “The Girl and the Beetle,” which blend fantastical settings with the same dry humor and thoughtful observation. Listeners will find a charming mix of satire, gentle philosophy, and vivid imagination that feels both timeless and readily conversational.