Fire has been used as a symbol of destruction by Butler throughout the novel. Arsonists rage throughout the cities addicted to pyro, a drug that makes people want to burn everything in sight. This is a powerful symbol that I believe Butler uses because it is a natural element being used by humans for demolition and destruction. Lauren's neighborhood has just been burned down, leading to her fleeing with Zahra and Harry. Do you guys find any other meanings behind this use of fire in the novel?
Lauren tends to have different views on life and the future than those in her neighborhood. After Amy's death and the cremation of her body, Lauren spends more time with Joanne who seems to be exactly what the rich want her to be: she doesn't believe they can escape their situation and simply hopes for a better life after death. Lauren is much more involved in her future and won't settle for less which I admire her for. It seems that many people agree with Lauren about the government's incompetence, but seem to be accepting and content with the fact that nothing will change. Lauren's imaginative approach sets her apart from Joanne, and so far she is alone in that approach.
Someone pointed out that this book directly references climate change, so there's a sort of parallel in terms of people on pyro while the world burns. I hadn't thought of that! Plus there's also the phoenix-arising-from-ashes metaphor, which is apt.
ReplyDeleteGreat job on these blog posts -- you've given me a lot to think about!