Books matching: societal decay
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:Beasts by John Crowley is a science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic United States where genetic engineered human-animal hybrids known as 'leos' are being hunted down by the Union for Social Engineering. The narrative follows multiple characters, including Painter, a leo, and Caddie, a young woman who becomes involved with Painter's pride. The story explores themes of nature versus civilization, the struggle for survival, and the complex relationships between humans and animal hybrids.
- #2
Save:'Mockingbird' by Walter Tevis is a dystopian science fiction novel set in a future United States where humans and androids coexist in a society that is slowly disappearing. The story follows the journey of a man who teaches himself to read, and then meets a girl with whom he explores a new direction. As they navigate a world where technological advancements have led to a society devoid of essential human qualities, the characters grapple with themes of individualism, intellectual curiosity, and the consequences of giving people what they want rather than what they need.
Walking up Fifth Avenue at midnight, Spofforth begins to whistle. He does not know the name of the tune nor does he care to know; it is a complicated tune, one he whistles often when alone. He is nake... - #3
Save:'The Memoirs of a Survivor' by Doris Lessing is a dystopian novel set in a near-future Britain where society is collapsing, families are breaking down, and the government is retreating into an elite circle. The story follows an unnamed narrator who takes in a teenager named Emily as everything around them deteriorates. The narrative includes elements of surrealism, with the narrator experiencing another world beyond reality and witnessing Emily's struggles to navigate a world with no future. The writing style is described as dense, introspective, and observant, vividly depicting the quiet panic and waiting that people in such situations often experience.
We all remember that time. It was no different for me than for others. Yet we do tell each other over and over again the particularities of the events we shared, and the repetition, the listening, is ... - #4
Save:'FUTU.RE' by Dmitry Glukhovsky is a gripping and exhilarating read that delves into a future world filled with political comparisons, life, immortality, and complex characters. The novel is set in Europe in the 2500s, showcasing a possible utopia of immortal humans alongside the dark underbellies of society. The main character, Jan, navigates a world where themes of politics, life, and immortality are intertwined, leading to a shocking reveal in the final chapters. Glukhovsky's writing style is described as masterful storytelling, with fresh ideas and a subtle political commentary that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
A li is a fine thing, I tell myself. There’s a whole heap of reasons to admire li s. Travelling horizontally, you always know where you’ll end up. But moving vertically you can find yourself absolutel... - #5
Save:Three Comrades by Erich Maria Remarque is a poignant story that follows the lives of three World War I veterans and friends in post-war Germany. The novel delves into the deep bond between the comrades as they navigate through the challenges of unemployment, poverty, and societal upheaval. Set against the backdrop of a crumbling Germany in the interwar period, the story not only captures the personal struggles of the characters but also serves as a metaphor for the fate of the nation during that time. Through heartbreaking moments and moments of humor, the book explores themes of love, friendship, loss, and the search for meaning in a post-war world.
The sky was yellow as brass, not yet hidden by the smoke from the chimney stacks. Behind the roofs of the factory the radiance was especially bright. The sun must be just rising. I looked at my watch;... - #6
Save:Brother to Dragons by Charles Sheffield is a dark and dystopian science fiction novel set in a post-successful USA. The story follows Job Napoleon Salk, an unlucky individual who rises from the bottom to achieve a goal, which remains unknown until the final and most drastic decision is made. The book portrays a bleak future of America, focusing on social issues such as the downspiral of social spending on education and health, concentration camps for scientists, and the preservation of status by the richest families. Despite the absurd premise of a world economic collapse caused by pollution and decay, the novel is described as fast-moving and gripping, following Salk's life from a deformed, radiation-poisoned child to a protagonist who brings about a significant change in the world.
- #7
Save:Newton Thornburg's 'Cutter and Bone' is a dark and twisted tale of two friends, Richard Bone and Alex Cutter, navigating through post-Vietnam disillusionment and weariness. The story revolves around Bone witnessing a murder, which leads them to concoct a blackmail scheme against a wealthy tycoon, J.J. Wolfe. The novel delves deep into the characters' inner struggles, societal commentary, and the quest for meaning in their bleak lives, set against the backdrop of 1960s and 70s American society.
The narrative is a blend of hardboiled mystery, character development, and societal critique, creating a seedy atmosphere filled with intrigue and despair. Thornburg's writing style intricately weaves together the complexities of the characters, the melancholy of the plot, and the stark contrasts within American society, offering a gripping and thought-provoking read that goes beyond the typical crime novel.
It was not the first time Richard Bone had shaved with a Lady Remington, nor did he expect it to be the last. Nevertheless he felt a distinct breath of revulsion as he drew the instrument back and for... - #8
Save:The Sky is Yours by Chandler Klang Smith is a unique blend of literary satire and apocalyptic Sci-Fi set in a dragon-plagued city where characters navigate through complex relationships and societal decay. The story follows characters like Swanny, Duncan, and Abby, each with their own quirks and struggles, as they face unexpected challenges and forge their own paths in a world filled with dragons, strange technologies, and societal inequalities.
The book weaves together elements of futuristic settings, complex character dynamics, and dark humor, creating a narrative that is both bold and imaginative. Through a mix of genres and writing styles, the author presents a world where characters confront their limits and make choices that shape their destinies against the backdrop of a decaying society and looming dragon threats.
Empire Island is a winking island too, an island full of eyes. We used to watch one another through its windows, to catch glimpses of ourselves in the mirrored windows as we strolled past. Those windo... - #9
Save:'Re: Colonised Planet 5, Shikasta' by Doris Lessing is a unique science fiction novel that offers a bleak yet accurate portrayal of mankind's future. Lessing's writing delves into mythological, historical, and political themes while exploring the origins of humans, their societies, and history. The story is presented in a series of letters written by higher order beings observing Earth, providing a stylized condemnation of modern man and modern history. The narrative follows Johor, an emissary from the enigmatic Canopus, as he navigates the dark and violent days of the planet Shikasta, drawing parallels to the tumultuous times of twentieth-century Earth.
- #10
Save:Your Utopia by Bora Chung is a collection of short stories that blends literary fiction with elements of science fiction and horror. The narratives explore themes of human loneliness and isolation amidst futuristic and often unsettling backdrops. Each story is imaginative, touching on various topics such as AI relationships, corporate nature, and societal decay, provoking thought and reflection.
Chung's writing style is straightforward and engaging, free from unnecessary embellishments, allowing readers to stay connected with the story. The tales range from humorous to grim, reminiscent of classic sci-fi series with a social commentary twist. While some stories produced emotional connections, others sparked curiosity and inquiry into the implications of technological advancement.
