Rot in Peace

In the cycle of life, the decomposition of matter releases nutrients that allow organisms to be born, grow, die, and decompose in turn. Essential to all living organisms, this microbiological process is closely linked to regeneration. Decomposition is a promise of rebirth. However, in the imagination associated with it, the idea of decomposition causes disgust and a feeling of abjection. Rot, putrefaction, mould, or deterioration are just some of the words that feed the repugnance and apprehension aroused by decay.

Yet decomposition doesn’t only impact organic matter. It also affects mineral or synthetic materials, gradually transforming buildings and infrastructures into rubble. Dilapidation, decrepitude, and ruin are therefore added to our evocative vocabulary. Metaphorically, we associate these phenomena with societal decline and the collapse of political and economic structures, even with the destruction of our civilization. In this context, disgust also transforms into terror and apocalyptic visions. How can we envision rebirth in a world on the brink of collapse?