In the remarkable book Why Fish Don’t Exist, cohost of Radiolab Lulu Miller takes readers through a tapestry of life interwoven with chaos, love, and obsession. This thought-provoking narrative tells the story of David Starr Jordan, a taxonomist who dedicated his life to cataloging the natural world. His journey was not only a scientific endeavor but also a profound exploration of human resilience in the face of despair.
Jordan achieved the impressive feat of discovering nearly a fifth of the known fish species of his time. However, his pursuit of knowledge was continually met with unforeseen calamities—from lightning strikes to devastating fires, culminating in the destruction caused by the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, which obliterated much of his life's work. The image of glass jars shattering to the floor serves as a powerful metaphor for life’s unpredictability.
In that moment of destruction, many would succumb to despair, but not Jordan. Instead, he found the first fish he recognized amid the wreckage and began the arduous task of rebuilding his collection. His innovative approach to safeguarding his discoveries against the chaos around him offers a compelling lesson about resilience and the human spirit.
When Miller first heard about Jordan’s incredible tale, she viewed it as a warning against hubris. Yet, as her own life unraveled, she began to see him in a new light—a figure embodying the strength to persevere when faced with loss. Her deep dive into his life invites readers to reflect on history, morality, and the intricate dance between order and chaos.
Why Fish Don’t Exist is more than just a biographical account; it’s a journey into the depths of the human experience and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to rebuild and redefine our lives. The book is a perfect read for anyone looking to find meaning amidst the turmoil of existence.
