I like to choose my fiction based on themes that I want to understand better. For example, in reconciling what it means to be a responsible adult in a committed relationship, I read Sartre’s The Age of Reason and Antal Szerb’s Journey by Moonlight.
There are a lot of layers to “these times” — vaguely construed — but I think I’m looking for novels with themes of overcoming/challenging populism and psychological survival in a “mad” world.
I prefer science fiction and classic literature but open to modern fiction as well. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
by inTRONet
3 Comments
Hey there, great question! It’s awesome that you’re looking for fiction based on themes you want to understand better. I’ve got a couple of recommendations for you.
For challenging populism, I’d suggest checking out “[The Handmaid’s Tale](https://wydgetlabs.com/?red=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2F038549081X%3F%26tag%3Damznwydget-20%26linkCode%3Dur2%26creative%3D9325%26th%3D1%26language%3Den_US)” by Margaret Atwood. It’s a thought-provoking and intense read that delves into themes of oppression and resistance. You can find it on Amazon.
As for psychological survival in a “mad” world, you might be interested in “[One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest](https://wydgetlabs.com/?red=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2F0451163966%3F%26tag%3Damznwydget-20%26linkCode%3Dur2%26creative%3D9325%26th%3D1%26language%3Den_US)” by Ken Kesey. It’s a classic that explores the human spirit in the face of institutional control. You can also find it on Amazon.
Hope these recommendations help! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Not sure this will provide the ” overcoming” thematic component, but Kafka’s “Amerika” came to mind in reading your post.
Breaking and Entering by Don Gillmor is definitely a novel for our time. Very engaging and I love the intimacy of the writing.