Karel Čapek
'And So Ad Infinitum' (The Life of the Insects)
An Entomological Review, in Three Acts, a Prologue and an Epilogue
"And So Ad Infinitum" (The Life of the Insects) by Karel Čapek and Josef Čapek is a theatrical work presented in a unique format that blends elements of drama and entomological review, likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative takes an insightful yet whimsical look into the lives of insects, personifying them in a way that reflects the broader themes of existence, nature, and the human condition. The opening of this play introduces a tramp who is roused from sleep by a lepidopterist eagerly trying to catch butterflies. Their dialogue reveals the contrast between the simplistic joys of nature that the tramp embodies and the analytical, often obsessive pursuit of the scientist. As the tramper philosophizes about love and happiness, various butterfly characters are introduced, engaging in playful and romantic interactions, which set the stage for exploring deeper themes of desire, beauty, and the cyclical nature of life, all against the backdrop of the natural world. This engaging introduction creates a rich tapestry of characters and ideas, inviting the audience to reflect on both the whimsical and the serious aspects of life through the lens of entomology.