By Cecilia Nasmith

Fans of Martin Lee Mueller's 2017 book Being Salmon, Being Human have encountered his thesis that the salmon industry is a microcosm for the Western culture's alienation from the currents of nature.

That theme will be explored Feb. 2 in a performance by Norwegian artists in the chapel at Cobourg's Villa St. Joseph Ecology and Spirituality Centre.

Mueller's book explores the attitude that has evolved over the past 400 years of Western culture that sees the planet as a backdrop to human experience. His argument is that being fully human means expanding our horizons to include consideration for the animals that share Earth with us – in other words, imagining the world as a salmon might see it and allowing this to enrich our understanding of humanity.

Instead, salmon have been converted into a commodity by the humans who have domain over the animal kingdom.

“Weaving story telling and music, this Norwegian-based performance activates our senses and asks for a critical restoration and re-storying of what it means to be a human living within a larger body,” the poster says.

Villa St. Joseph is located at 445 Monk St., and the performance takes place from 2 to 4 p.m. Organizers suggest RSVPs to reserve your spot, and admission is by donation (with a suggested donation of $20, or pay what you can).

To reserve your spot, call 905-372-2741 and leave your name, or visit Eventbrite.com and search Being Salmon Being Human.