The ecological argument motif
Garrett focuses particularly on the ecological causes of epidemics in the text, making this a key motif. She suggests that in modern times, the disruption of ecosystems can accelerate the development and spread of diseases.
Humanity and nature motif
The relationship between humanity and nature is another motif in this text. Garrett often writes about the responsibility of humanity in how they treat the environment.
"The Coming Plague"
The title of this text is "The Coming Plague," and the "plague" here is used as a symbol of epidemics in general. This is because epidemics are often referred to as "plagues" which associates it with the disastrous consequences of the black death.
A socio-political reading of epidemics
As well as noting the ecological causes of epidemics, Garrett also suggests that epidemics can be caused by socio-political issues. This is a key motif of the text, and Garrett suggests that social issues such as poor housing, improper medical care, prostitution, and drug use are reasons diseases spread quicker.
The Hemorrhagic Fever in San Joaquin
Garrett uses the example of the Hemorrhagic Fever outbreak in Bolivia to symbolize the role of humanity in epidemics. This outbreak was transmitted by mice and occurred in the small city of San Joaquin due to increased infrastructure in the area, which led to a huge increase in the number of mice.
