What is spirit in Strange the Dreamer?
In Laini Taylor's fantastical novel Strange the Dreamer, spirit refers to a unique, clear fluid that circulates within the bodies of its inhabitants, distinct from their blood.
The Biological Uniqueness of Lazlo's World
The denizens of the world depicted in Strange the Dreamer possess a peculiar biological feature: they are endowed with two hearts.
- Primary Heart: One of these hearts performs the conventional function, diligently pumping blood throughout the body, ensuring basic life sustenance.
- Secondary, Mysterious Heart: The other heart, however, is an enigmatic organ. Its primary role is to circulate the clear fluid known as "spirit." This unique circulatory system highlights a fundamental difference in the biology of the characters within the novel, hinting at deeper magical or intrinsic qualities associated with this "spirit" fluid.
This dual circulatory system is a core aspect of the world's design, emphasizing its fantastical nature where "spirit" is an integral part of life, potentially carrying profound implications beyond mere biological function that are explored throughout the narrative.
