Impossible Creatures

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of animal death.

In Impossible Creatures, the Glimourie Tree symbolizes the connection between humanity and the natural world. Knowledgeable characters in the novel describe the tree as the source of glimourie, the magical life force that runs through all living things and connects them. When humans and the natural world are in balance, there is enough glimourie to sustain all of existence and allow all creatures to thrive. Likewise, when humans and the natural world are out of balance, as when Francesco Sforza consumes vast amounts of glimourie, the natural world begins to fall apart.

The glimourie that comes from the tree isn’t just a force in the Archipelago; it also extends to Christopher’s world and to the entire planet. In this way, glimourie becomes a potent symbol of the connection that exists between the magical world and the nonmagical world, for what happens in one world has an impact on the other.

Gelifen, the last griffin in the Archipelago, stands as a symbol for the special relationship between creatures and humanity. His status as the very last of his species also illustrates the fragility of nature. Gelifen served as Mal’s companion when she lived a solitary life before the primary events of the book, and he also supports her during the dangerous adventures of her quest.