A new sci-fi novel, The End of Everything by M John Harrison, has arrived, promising a fresh spin on the post-apocalyptic story. But what it delivers is a rudderless narrative that leaves readers struggling to grasp the world’s new reality.
A crisis has occurred, but what that means is anyone’s guess. The arrival of the iGhetti, an interplanetary entity that leaked in through the astral plane, has brought about a world in disarray. But Harrison’s tale doesn’t quite live up to its promise of a cohesive, thought-provoking exploration of what happens when the fabric of reality is torn apart.
A Haunting World with No Clear Direction
The story follows a cast of characters as they navigate the aftermath of the iGhetti’s arrival. There’s no clear goal or objective, just a sense of disorientation and disconnection. The narrative jumps between different timelines and realities, making it hard to keep track of what’s happening or what’s real.
At times, Harrison’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful. His prose is poetic, evocative, and has a haunting quality that’s perfect for this kind of story. But the lack of clear direction makes it difficult to become invested in the characters or their struggles.
A World Without Meaning
The iGhetti’s arrival has brought about a world without meaning. Nothing makes sense, and the rules of reality no longer apply. This is a world where the concept of time is fluid, where the meaning of life is called into question, and where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are blurred.
This is a thought-provoking concept, and Harrison explores it with skill. But the execution falls short. The narrative is disjointed, and the characters are underdeveloped, making it hard to care about their plight.
What This Means
The End of Everything is a memorable, haunting work, but it’s not without its flaws. If you’re a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, you may find some interesting ideas and themes to explore. However, if you’re looking for a cohesive, engaging narrative, you may want to look elsewhere.
