Decoding Manash Talukdar’s Gift to the Blind man

This painting is inspired by a story by Daniil Kharms, capturing the essence of his surreal and often absurd storytelling style. There is nothing to be shared about this painting in words, as its true meaning transcends mere verbal expression. However, I would like to add that curiosity never killed the cat; instead, it was the cat who killed curiosity, a thought-provoking notion that suggests the potential dangers of excessive inquisitiveness. In this work, the interplay of colors and forms reflects not only the whimsical narrative from Kharms’ work but also invites viewers to explore their own interpretations, engaging with the art on a deeper emotional level. The complexity of the composition challenges us to confront our own curiosities and fears, making it a truly immersive experience.

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OLD WOMEN TUMBLING OUT

An old woman tumbled out of a window because of excessive curiosity, fell and was killed.

Another old woman leaned out of a window and began to look down at the one who had gotten killed, but she too tumbled out of the window because of excessive curiosity, fell and was killed.

Then a third old woman tumbled out of a window, then a fourth, then a fifth.

When a sixth old woman tumbled out, I got tired of watching them and I went to the Maltsevsky Market where, they say, a blind man was given a knitted shawl as a gift.

1936-1937

EDIT: translation by Robert Chandler

Old Women Falling Out by Daniil Kharms