modified citizens and an intelligence-based social hierarchy, the novel anticipates huge scientific advancements in reproductive technology, sleep-learning, psychological manipulation and classical conditioning that are combined to make a dystopian society which is challenged by only a single individual: the story's protagonist."
I personally didn't enjoy this book. Some aspects and ideas where very clever and I genuinely enjoyed them. The first third of the book in which the basic outline of the "Brave New World" and its devalued, conveyer belt morality is set forth is brilliant. The narrative device employed by Huxley of having the Director of Hatchery and Conditioning provide a walking tour to students around the facility as a way of informing the reader on the societal basics was perfect. We learn of the cloning/birthing process, the caste system and the fundamental tenets upon which the society is organized.
It invited some intriguing concepts. The concept of forced consumerism, social conditioning, the breaking down of all emotional bonds, genetic castes, the dumbing down of media to reduce audience engagement and the use of narcotics to escape anything vaguely disconcerting all have parallels in our own world abet not as extreme. You could definitely understand and identify many of the societal trends that Huxley was concerned about.
However the rest of the book, and thus the main pathos, fell flat for me. The visit to the reservation, the introduction of John, his arch into ascetic monk/lunatic. None of these elements really make me feel anything. I couldn't connect to John or his struggles. The rest of the book was unemotional, dry and uninteresting. Huxley's final point was lost on me. John was no more sane/ relatable than the rest of the drugged up characters.
Age Rating 16+. Allusions to sex and some vaguely disturbing imagery.
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