The fountain is to be placed outside the entrance to the Lisner Auditorium, next to the University’s celebrated “Toni Morrison Bench,” which was rather confusingly dedicated to the still living author in 2011.
“What we’re hoping to do is to remind students of country’s great literary tradition,” said Dr. Arlo Westfield of the university’s English department. “What better way to do this than with a bench and a water fountain?”
Westfield went on to tell reporters that the fountain itself is intended not only to honor Lovecraft’s legacy, but reflect the scope of his works as well. Hewn out of a single large stone, the new installation will belch foul-smelling water up from the unfathomed depths of the Earth and remind onlookers of the ancient city of R’lyeh, where the great Cthulhu is said to slumber.
“The Toni Morrison bench is meant to inspire reflection on the themes of slavery and inequality addressed in many of Mrs. Morrison’s books,” Dr. Westfield told the Ax. “The Lovecraft fountain though, that we hope will prompt contemplation on the nature of horror, fate, and the unknowable. It’s a real #onlyatgw combination.”
Rumors are circulating that the administration is considering placing a picnic table dedicated to either Stephen King or Doctor Seuss next to the bench and drinking fountain, though these have yet to be confirmed or denied.
