The apocalyptic novel, The Triffids,
was my introduction to science fiction,
when I was about twelve, and had quite an impact on me.
Do you know
John Wyndham's book?
Wyndham's Triffids are large carnivorous plants capable of vicious and intelligent behaviour, and are equipped with venomous stingers which they use to stun and immobilise their prey, before feeding on them. They can uproot themselves and walk and communicate with each other.
The novel was made into a movie in 1962 and a couple of TV mini series...the last in 2009.
I have always kept my eyes open in case I came across a rampant triffid.
I think I may have found some!
 |
| Check out that stinger! |
They look somewhat Triffid like,
don't you think?
Now before you dismiss me as totally crazy have you heard that New Yorkers have been warned about huge venomous plants that can make people blind? Experts warn that contact with the plant's sap in combination with moisture and sunlight, can cause severe skin and eye irritation, painful blistering, permanent scarring and blindness.
My 'Triffid's are only about
12 centimetres/7 inches high and seem friendly.
However, just to be on the safe side....
I won't be fertilizing
them anytime soon!
