Preparing the Ghost: An Essay Concerning the Giant Squid and Its First Photographer

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Set against the backdrop of 1874 Newfoundland, the narrative begins with Moses Harvey, an eccentric reverend who famously photographed a giant squid. Matthew Gavin Frank intertwines Harvey's story with explorations of history, science, and memoir, creating a rich tapestry that reflects on human obsession. Through lyrical prose, Frank shares his own experiences in Newfoundland, childhood memories, and intriguing facts, reminiscent of Melville's fascination with the sea. This work offers a unique and unpredictable examination of the deep-seated human impulse to obsess.