Parmenides (Lampros’ Cuttlefish)
Parmenides is a domesticated pet cuttlefish belonging to Lampros, the older brother of Elena, in the Argolic Gulf. He lives in the family’s courtyard, where Lampros has repurposed a broken washing machine into a yard house for him – an invention that Parmenides immediately embraced, likely because of the automatic feeder installed inside, which distributes prawns at set hours. Cuttlefish in this world are described as intelligent creatures capable of counting, remembering details about their last meal, and even dreaming. Lampros named him Parmenides after the ancient land philosopher who proclaimed determinism; Elena found the name depressing, but Lampros insisted he couldn’t be talked out of it, as it was “decided by fate.” Despite the philosophically heavy name, Parmenides is portrayed as a rather happy cuttlefish who adores his owner. No physical description – such as colour, size, or markings – is provided in the story. His role is minor but charming, illustrating Lampros’ inventive, quirky personality and the warm, domestic life of the family.
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