“The future is imaginary and all its promises and fears imagined. We can rest in this moment.”
The quote from Lenk's meditation teacher encapsulates a central theme of the novel. It speaks to the tension between the anticipation of what lies ahead and the wisdom of finding peace in the present moment. The characters in the story grapple with a world on the brink of upheaval, which is shaped by the ambitions and fears of the ultra-wealthy, technological advancements, and apocalyptic threats. Furthermore, the meditation teacher's words invite reflection on the speculative and often illusory nature of the future. It urges the students to find comfort and clarity in the present regardless of the uncertain world they face. Therefore, it underscores the importance of mindfulness and being grounded despite the quest for control over what is to come.
“Those people didn’t know that anything had boiled over. Still, somewhere out there, something was happening. Alarms don’t go off for no reason.”
The quote captures the essence of pervasive tension in this world teetering on the edge of change. Ellen's realization, after checking a survivalist website, unveils a truth. The majority of people are oblivious to the imminent peril, which illustrates the divide between those in power and the rest of the public. The term "alarms" serves as a representation of the underlying issues and crises in the near-future world. Therefore, some characters are taking proactive measures to navigate the impending storm. For instance, Martha Einkorn straddles the line between the elite and the rest of the world. She is aware of the imminent crisis due to her association with Lenk. Badger Bywater is determined to use her mother’s company to assist their friends in saving the world. The quote raises questions about responsibility, awareness, and the consequences of disparities in knowledge and access.
“The protocol was to make no phone calls in this situation. It was no use having a safe and comfortable place to ride out a global catastrophe if everyone knew you were leaving and could follow you.”
The quote accentuates the theme of privilege, secrecy, and the imbalance of power in the novel. It reveals the lengths to which the wealthy go to preserve their survival in a time of crisis. The protocol mentioned reflects the harsh reality that those with the means to escape a disaster prioritize self-preservation. They have secret bunkers in place to safeguard their own lives and interests. This leaves the majority without such resources to fend for themselves. It serves as a reminder of the social inequalities present during this looming catastrophe. In essence, it sheds light on the ethical implications of selfish actions and the abandonment of collective responsibility.
