Me: Calvin is making a snowman. He says, “This time I’m taking advantage of my medium’s impermanence. This sculpture is about transience. As the figure melts, it invites the viewer to contemplate the evanescence of life. This piece speaks to the horror of our own mortality!”

Clare: One time I made a snowman with daddy! We made it out of snow! We had gloves on our hands! Then they came off and my hands were cold!!!

Me: Yes, you have a good memory, sweetheart. Let’s keep reading.

Clare: Okay. I like this Hobbes book!