The Distributive Passions

Dear Josiah,

I perceive that you come, slowly, around toward my position. Our mutual correspondent sees all too well how the new harmonies are to be brought into being. Owen, it seems, will have a religion, no matter the cost to us all. I commend the Philadelphia comrades to you, and, also, Gray’s most recent Lecture. We may yet see from his pen the shape of the true social marriage. Too swiftly, I know, I must close this. Your notes on the one require more of me before I can give adequate answer. Soon, my friend. You have my promise. But affairs in Boston call, and I must answer. Meantime, tell me more of your time-money and the nature of your quarrel with Gray. Find enclosed some additional translations from the Traité. I would not force more Fourier upon you, but this I think you will find of interest. Let me know your thoughts. I will respond to all. Most sincerely,

- Cabalist

Imagine that, in the early 19th century, the various libertarian currents, particularly mutualism, had met with just a little less resistance, that co-operation had dug its roots in just a bit deeper, particularly in American soil. Imagine there was a bit more to the ubiquitous social-sciences-of-everything than just hyperbole and wild metaphysical speculation. Take a few short steps with me, and we’ll see what might be possible.

Butterfly Labors combines a bridging narrative, Across Golden Seas, set in a somewhat altered present, with several sections based on familiar figures. The first of these is Sovereigns, which covers roughly the period 1826-1875. The names will be familiar; the events will be a mix of history and history-based fantasy. From time to time I’ll add commentary to explain which is which.