The Latin word limbus has various meanings in different contexts. It can mean the border or edge of an anatomical part, such as the inner border of the brain’s cortex. It also refers to the limbic system, the brain structures involved in regulating emotions, motivation and various autonomous functions.
1 The limbic system also builds connections between emotional responses and physical sensations stored in the long-term memory. The theological meaning of limbo is ‘purgatory’. In the theology of the Catholic Church, it has two meanings. Limbus patrum describes the temporary state of the souls excluded from the beatific vision until Christ’s triumphant ascension into Heaven. Limbus infantium in turn defines the permanent state of unbaptized children.
2 Metaphorically, limbus refers to a state of oblivion or permanent uncertainty—a prison-like state. The characters in Ekström’s works appear to be imprisoned in their bodies or gender-roles. The caged birds in The Last Branch can be interpreted as a commentary on the subjugation of freedom, or the taming of nature. (Leevi Haapala)
NEW GIF CHECK IT
A gif to illustrate a piece I submitted for Toby Oliver Dean's First Pet's magazine, if he ever gets around to publishing it!!!
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