Cover Daniel Merriam

The composition presents a densely layered scene dominated by a large, ancient tree whose branches extend across the upper portion of the frame. The foliage is richly colored with autumnal hues – oranges, yellows, and reds – and laden with fruit, suggesting abundance and perhaps a sense of ripeness or decay depending on interpretation.
Beneath the trees canopy lies an intricate cityscape. Buildings of varying architectural styles are tightly packed together, creating a labyrinthine effect. The structures appear fantastical rather than realistic; their details suggest a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and possibly Art Nouveau influences. A prominent building with a large clock face is centrally positioned, its presence suggesting the passage of time or perhaps an attempt to control it.
The artist has populated this urban landscape with diminutive figures engaged in various activities – some appear to be observing the tree, others are interacting within the buildings, and still others seem to be caught in moments of quiet contemplation. Their small scale relative to the tree and architecture emphasizes a sense of vulnerability or insignificance against larger forces.
The overall effect is one of dreamlike surrealism. The juxtaposition of natural elements (the tree) with man-made structures creates a visual tension, hinting at themes of nature versus civilization, growth versus constraint, or perhaps memory and imagination. The title The Impetus of Dreams reinforces this interpretation; the scene appears to be an exploration of the subconscious mind – a place where logic is suspended and disparate elements coalesce into unexpected forms.
A dark border frames the entire image, isolating the fantastical world within and contributing to its sense of mystery and otherworldliness. The text at the top and bottom, The Art Of and The Impetus of Dreams, further contextualize the work as a presentation of an artists vision – a gateway into a realm of imagination.