Book of Souls
Mixed-media, 2007The fascinating aspect of this project lies not with the signatures within this book but with the stories behind those who did not sign. One woman criticized the legal terminology used, arguing the contracts were not written properly, yet she still did not sign. Even though she did not think the contract was binding she was not willing to risk her soul. Others have refused, citing television episodes where disaster happens once a character sells his or her soul. Many would not sign due to religious reasons. One Buddhist did not sign because the contract specified heaven and hell yet had no clause for Nirvana.
The most insightful experience was with an atheist. Fascinated with the idea behind this project, she conversed with me for quite a while before signing her contract. When it came time to sign she hesitated.and recognized her own hesitation. As an atheist she did not believe in the concept of a soul but something stopped her from immediately signing it away. After some deliberation she came to the realization that this was a test of her "non-faith" and she had to sign since to not sign would be to put value in something she doesn't believe exists.
This woman arrived at the closest realization of the purpose of this project. These contracts were created not for the ownership of souls but to make people think. Can souls be bought, sold, or given away? Is the eternal soul such a petty object that a single signature can revoke your control over it? What is the value of your soul?
The text reads:
Being of sound body and mind, I do hereby transfer my soul, to be defined for the purposes of this agreement as the immaterial essence or the spiritual principle embodied in human beings and all rational and spiritual beings, in my possession to the bearer of this document.
Should there be an afterlife with an eternal paradise, referred as "Heaven" and a local of eternal damnation, referred to as "Hell," which require, upon entrance, the command of one (1) soul, Bearer shall return the soul, as-is and without warranty or guarantee, to the original owner of said soul.
I acknowledge that through this transfer I guarantee that up until the signing of this document I am in full control of said soul, with no liens, securities, or other bonds against it, and that the soul is in healthy condition with no pox, plague, or other curse placed upon it.