The Mystery of Emerging Form

This book builds on the work of Rudolf Steiner, and especially his Calendar of the Soul, where the constellations of the Zodiac are illustrated by Imma von Eckhardstein and reproduced here. Trained in biology, Yvan's perspective is very different from the objectifying gaze of modern science and draws on two important concepts from Aristotle: his hylomorphism, where 'beings and things (ousia) are compounds of matter and form emerging out of nature's rhythms' (and our own perception); then entelechy, the active spirit directing matter into form. In this book, spirit is 'a conscious intelligent activity or intention that makes the fabric of the kingdoms of nature.' (p. 3) This same creative intention works within us, coordinated by what the author calls a rhythmic purpose resonating with the Zodiac constellations. Each of the 12 chapters follows a similar structure, unfolding from simple to more complex and self-conscious life forms. Perceptually, the formative force is not behind the form, but, according to Goethe, 'comes into view through manifestation', even if our limited senses cannot grasp it as a whole. This is a subtle journey of sequences of unfolding forms all expressing the one life.