The Western Lands

Prompt:  illustration for a novel The Western Lands by William S. Burroughs, it refers to the western bank of the Nile River, which in Egyptian mythology is the Land of the Dead. Inspired by the Egyptian Book of the Dead, Burroughs explores the after-death state by means of dream scenarios, hallucinatory passages, talismanic magic, occultism, superstition, and his characteristic view of the nature of reality. a surreal and vibrant artwork featuring an ancient Egyptian riverside scene with a dreamlike atmosphere. The top of the image fades into a gradient sky, transitioning from a deep sea blue to a soft peach tone. The sky is populated with orange silhouetted birds in flight, and celestial bodies including a crescent moon, stars, and stylized suns and moons encased in circular designs resembling intricate astral clocks. In the background stands an Egyptian temple with traditional architecture, including massive sandstone walls, a large entry gate, and a dome. An Egyptian obelisk covered in hieroglyphs stands to the right. To the temple's left are lush palm trees swaying gently. The middle-ground features vibrant, swirling blue waters of the Nile, teeming with waves and eddies. A classic Egyptian boat with a cabin and oars floats calmly on the river, and a stone platform with steps leading to the water is just visible. In the foreground, an array of human figures, some draped in white robes and others in red, are engaged in various activities alongside the riverbank. Some appear to be in communal or ritualistic poses, while others are reclining or sitting on the stone embankment. Near the water's edge, a muscular figure lies with an arm outstretched towards the river, as if reaching for the water. The entire scene is detailed with a vibrant color palette of oranges, blues, and sand tones and rendered in a style that combines realism