What's Happening?
George Saunders' latest novel, 'Vigil,' published by Random House, delves into themes of redemption and climate change. The story follows Jill Blaine, a ghost, who attempts to guide K.J. Boone, an unrepentant
oil executive, toward redemption and the afterlife. Boone, terminally ill, is uninterested in finding peace, instead reveling in his past accomplishments, including influencing the U.S. decision to abandon the Kyoto Protocol. The novel explores Boone's defiant rise to power and his perception as a villain, while Jill and a French colleague attempt to show him the devastating effects of climate change. Saunders uses this narrative to pose questions about salvation and justice, creating a work that is both irreverent and thought-provoking.
Why It's Important?
The novel 'Vigil' by George Saunders is significant as it addresses the pressing issue of climate change through a fictional narrative. By highlighting Boone's role in the abandonment of the Kyoto Protocol, Saunders brings attention to the real-world impact of political and corporate decisions on environmental policies. The book challenges readers to consider the ethical implications of such actions and the possibility of redemption for those who have contributed to environmental degradation. It serves as a cultural critique of the attitudes and behaviors that hinder progress in addressing climate change, encouraging reflection on personal and collective responsibility.
