Deep Wheel Orcadia

Deep Wheel Orcadia is a compelling science-fiction verse-novel that transports readers to a unique space station grappling with the pressures of change. Astrid, returning home from art school on Mars, seeks inspiration amid the vibrant yet tumultuous life of Deep Wheel Orcadia. Meanwhile, Darling is in search of refuge, fleeing from a life that never resonated with their true self. Their intertwining journeys reveal the intricate layers of community and individual struggle.

The Plot

Set against the backdrop of a station teetering on the brink of transformation, the narrative unfolds through the voices of a diverse cast of characters, each facing their own challenges. As the community of Deep Wheel Orcadia wrestles with its identity, the themes of belonging, work, and self-discovery emerge poignantly. The story is enriched by its unique use of the Orkney dialect, paired with a parallel English translation, inviting readers to immerse themselves fully in the cultural and emotional landscape.

Themes

• Belonging: Characters navigate their connections to each other and their environment.
• Identity: The struggle for self-definition in a rapidly changing world.
• Work: The significance of labour and its impact on personal fulfilment.

Rendered in lyrical prose, Deep Wheel Orcadia not only captivates with its narrative but also prompts reflection on the essence of community and the search for one's place within it. Fans of innovative storytelling, such as those found in works by authors like Ali Smith or David Mitchell, will find much to admire in this unique offering.