The Squonk: Chapter 104

Squonk: Copper, Steel Chain, Steel wire, Crystal Tears

The Squonk comes up much later in the book, but so many folks have asked about her, I decided to bump her up. I really rather love her.

from Borges: "Hunters who are good at tracking are able to follow a squonk by its tear-stained trail, for the animal weeps constantly. When cornered and escape seems impossible, or when surprised or frightened, it may even dissolve itself into tears."

He goes on to describe hunting the bird on frozen nights, in order to catch even the tears.

This beast is obviously pitiable, but also clearly silly. The only reason given for it's lamentation is that the bird does not think it is beautiful.