u/AdVegetable2870

> "I have visited some literatures of East and West; I have compiled an encyclopedic compendium of fantastic literature; I have translated Kafka, Melville, and Bloy; I know of no stranger work than that of Henry James."^([3])

Came across this quote today while reading about Henry James. I love Borges way more than James but I suspect that I'll be reading a bunch of James in the near future.

This was my favorite cactus. Purchased off Palmstreet in July or August 2025. We ordered the glass tentacles and squid head specifically for it. repotted once to bury more of the dragonfruit graft host. then this week it started showing mushiness in the ball itself, and when we inspected the tray underneath it was crammed full of ants.

I didn't think it was dead, thought it was worth giving some attention, but when my wife demonstrated the mushiness I gave in.

EDIT: the photos are of the plant well before today.

We have a small one of the same species as well. maybe will have more luck.

Looked under every single other cactus on that shelf and other shelves of the rack. only one other ant collection, much smaller, under a Pink Panther. She was overdue for repotting so we did that. bought some Neem spray too and treated her.