A dalek is flesh made obsolete. The outer shell the weapon, the machine has become more important than the occupant. When picturing a dalek one does not think of the creature within but the container in which that bit of stunted spirit lives. A dalek tank is a tool that has overcome its wielder to become the dominant force. Similarly, our society struggles with the fear that our creations may one day outsmart us and lead us down paths we are not so eager to take. Bodies are fragile and prone to error mechanisms are constructed to bypass this perceived weakness. Daleks are like the drones sent into war-ravaged areas weapons without conscience, adhering to a singular purpose. Drones do not revel in the suffering they cause it is simply beside the point. Daleks represent a fear that the balance between constructive and destructive technology has already shifted. For every advance that eases human misery a weapon is devised to increase it. The further we remove ourselves from witnessing the horror of war the greater the chance that we will allow it to continue.
Mary Ogle is the author and illustrator of “Orangeroof Zoo” a whimsical tale of magical realism told through the pages of a coloring book for adults. Working as a professional artist in the digital medium, Mary’s commissions have included everything from fine art to fan art, book cover design, illustration and book layout. Find more of Mary’s work at www.maryogle.com. Mary currently finds inspiration in the Ojai Valley, residing in a snug little cottage with a recalcitrant cat.
