Ruth Franke's new book presents an innovative bilingual concept (German/English) that merges short prose and verse with visual art. Featuring 22 short stories (haibun) interspersed with haiku, it invites readers to immerse themselves in various atmospheres and engage with its multi-layered content. The English translations by David Cobb and Celia Brown add an extra appeal through their creative language. Jim Kacian's preface, “The Waves/Die Wellen,” encapsulates the book's essence while exploring the stages of human life and our place in history. Additionally, the work features the visual artistry of Berlin painter Reinhard Stangl, whose images introduce the four chapters and set the mood for themes ranging from memories and sea impressions to life's storms. The title, “Schwerelos gleiten / Slipping Through Water,” is reflected in the beautifully designed cover and in Stangl's paintings, emphasizing the recurring theme of the author’s love for the sea and the desire for unimpeded movement through water: “schwerelos gleiten / neugeboren / als Fisch” and “slipping through water / in my new life / turned into a fish.” The book's high-quality design delights the eye, while the resonant texts inspire personal reflection, making it a volume worthy of multiple readings.
