Bull

The myth of the Minotaur is well known to most, so what can be done to make it fresh and new? Author David Elliott has taken the bull by the horns and turned it into a fresh, new tale, much as Lin-Manuel Miranda did with Hamilton, by retelling the age-old story in crisp, modern poetry. Elliott has chosen a different form for each major character to tell his or her own story in. This device clearly sets the characters apart, giving each a very distinctive voice. Poseidon, who has the most to say since he set everything into motion and had more control than anyone, is not as restricted in his form than others. This defines the capriciousness of his actions. Elliott not only explores the motivations of various characters, but he explores Asterion’s years from early childhood to adulthood, as well as those figures who were part of his growing up. The words and syntax Elliott uses are very modern, the kind of language one would hear at a local high school, if all the students chattered poetically. This is brilliant. Don’t miss it.