The Sticky Sundew:: Plant Carnivory and Queer Erotics

Emma Merkling

The Sticky Sundew: Plant Carnivory and Queer Erotics

Emma Merkling

Art History and Cultural Practices

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceeding › Chapter › peer-review

Abstract

This essay looks at Charles Darwin’s writings on the Sundew ('Drosera'), and the erotics generated by his engagement with this carnivorous plant. It explores how his researches into his 'beloved' sundew makes visible forms of queer relation in which pleasure and pain, desire and disgust, life and death stick together.

Original language	English
Title of host publication	Sticky Films: Conceptual and Material Explorations
Editors	Kerim Doğruel, Fadekami Olawoye, Clara Podlesnigg
Publisher	meson press
Pages	91-97
Number of pages	7
ISBN (Electronic)	9783957962355
ISBN (Print)	9783957962348I
Publication status	Published - 2026

Access to Document

https://meson.press/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/978-3-95796-235-5_Sticky_Films.pdf

Aestheticist Art and Victorian Biology: Queer-Theoretical Perspectives
Merkling, E. (PI)
1/09/18 → …
Project: Research

Cite this

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AB - This essay looks at Charles Darwin’s writings on the Sundew ('Drosera'), and the erotics generated by his engagement with this carnivorous plant. It explores how his researches into his 'beloved' sundew makes visible forms of queer relation in which pleasure and pain, desire and disgust, life and death stick together.

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A2 - Podlesnigg, Clara

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The Sticky Sundew: Plant Carnivory and Queer Erotics

Abstract

Access to Document

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Projects

Aestheticist Art and Victorian Biology: Queer-Theoretical Perspectives

Cite this