Description

Introducing Sticks Angelica, a captivating work by the talented Michael DeForge, published by Drawn & Quarterly. This enchanting narrative follows the life of Sticks Angelica, a complex character who describes herself in a multitude of roles: “49 years old, former Olympian, poet, scholar, sculptor, minister, activist, Governor General, entrepreneur, line cook, headmistress, Mountie, columnist, libertarian, and cellist.” Each of these titles hints at the rich tapestry of experiences that Sticks embodies, making her a truly unique protagonist.

After enduring a high-profile family scandal, Sticks seeks refuge in the woods, aiming for a life of relative isolation. However, her solitude is continuously interrupted by the diverse animals that inhabit her surroundings. Sticks is portrayed as an arrogant and self-obsessed individual, convinced of her importance in the natural world. Among her woodland companions is a rabbit named Oatmeal, who harbors an unrequited love for her. This adds a layer of humor and complexity to the narrative.

In her adventures, Sticks encounters a pair of kissing geese and a cross-dressing moose whimsically named Lisa Hanawalt. These eccentric characters contribute to the bizarre yet familiar world that DeForge crafts. The plot thickens when a reporter named Michael DeForge arrives to interview Sticks for his biography on her life. In a surprising turn of events, she quickly reacts by slugging him and burying him up to his neck in the ground, effectively immobilizing him. This moment is not only humorous but serves as a metaphor for Sticks’ complex relationship with her own narrative.

As the story unfolds, Sticks takes the reader on a journey through her past, recounting formative incidents that shape her identity. This narrative technique transforms the book into a strange sort of autobiography, where the lines between reality and fiction blur. DeForge’s witty dialogue and deadpan narration enhance the storytelling, inviting readers to reflect on the absurdities of life.

Ultimately, Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero serves as a thought-provoking examination of autobiography, biography, and hagiography. It challenges readers to consider how we construct our identities and the roles we assign to others in our personal narratives. Sticks’ journey through the forest becomes a metaphor for the exploration of self and the complex interplay between personal history and collective perception.