TL;DR
In 'Severance' by Ling Ma, Candace Chen navigates a world devastated by a plague while reflecting on modern life's monotony and the human condition, ultimately facing ethical dilemmas among a group of survivors.
What is Severance about
'Severance' explores the life of Candace Chen, a millennial who becomes increasingly isolated in her routine-driven life amidst a global plague known as Shen Fever. As New York succumbs to chaos, she documents her experiences as an anonymous blogger known as NY Ghost. Candace's journey leads her to cross paths with a group of survivors, governed by the ambitious Bob, who promises safety and a fresh start at a place called the Facility. The narrative juxtaposes her mundane office existence against the backdrop of societal collapse, probing themes of nostalgia, modern office culture, and the intricacies of human relationships. Ma's novel is both a satire and a poignant reflection on contemporary life, earning acclaim and recognition, including the 2018 Kirkus Prize for Fiction.
Severance 7 Key Takeaways
Candace's routine life in Manhattan.
Candace Chen is depicted as a millennial entrenched in the monotony of her job in a Manhattan office, illustrating her dedication to routine and her disconnection from the world around her.
The outbreak of Shen Fever.
As Shen Fever spreads across New York, families begin to flee and chaos ensues, creating an eerie atmosphere that Candace captures through her blog posts as she remains unaffected.
The isolation of urban life.
Candace's solitary existence contrasts with the societal collapse outside, highlighting the alienation prevalent in modern urban living as she roams the abandoned city.
Encounter with Bob and the survivor group.
Candace meets Bob and his group of survivors, who are seeking the Facility, showcasing the power dynamics that emerge in desperate situations.
Candace's secret and moral dilemma.
As tensions rise within the group, Candace grapples with a personal secret that puts her at odds with Bob's intentions, leading her to question her allegiance.
The quest for the Facility.
The group's journey to the Facility serves as a metaphor for humanity's struggle to recreate society amidst chaos, emphasizing themes of survival and community.
Reflection on contemporary culture.
Through Candace’s experiences and observations, the novel critiques the rituals and routines of contemporary life, leaving readers to ponder the value of connections in a disconnected world.
Top Severance Quotes
- We are all just waiting for something to happen, for our lives to begin, for a change that may never come.
- Survival is not just about staying alive; it's about what you carry with you in your heart.
- In the end, it was the routines we clung to that defined us, even as the world fell apart.
Who should read Severance?
'Severance' is ideal for readers who appreciate literary fiction infused with satirical elements. Fans of contemporary society critiques, post-apocalyptic narratives, and those interested in the complexities of modern relationships will find Ma’s work both engaging and thought-provoking, providing rich commentary on the human experience.
Severance Best Reviews
- Ling Ma's 'Severance' is a sharp, insightful satire that brilliantly captures the absurdities of modern life amid chaos. Her exploration of human connections is both compelling and thought-provoking.
- With a unique blend of humor and horror, 'Severance' offers a fresh take on the post-apocalyptic genre, blending the mundane with the surreal in a way that resonates deeply with readers.
- Ma’s debut novel is a striking commentary on the pitfalls of contemporary existence, deftly weaving themes of isolation and community into a narrative that is both engaging and unsettling.
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Severance FAQs
What are the main themes explored in Severance?
'Severance' delves into themes such as nostalgia, modern office culture, monotony, survival, and the complexities of human relationships amidst societal collapse.
Is Severance a debut novel?
Yes, 'Severance' is Ling Ma's debut novel, which has garnered critical acclaim and won the 2018 Kirkus Prize for Fiction.