What does Brown (2001) identify as the central themes and concerns of the novel?
As pages viii & viiii appear to be missing from Brown’s (2001) Introduction supplied in the Critical Reader file, I have taken what I can from the available words.
I have found that PKD explored, like in much of his work, metaphysics, ideas of reality (a hoax?) and morals, and domination within societies. As with most sci-fi writers Dick has placed ordinary people in extraordinary environments and left the audience/reader/viewer with no conclusions or reconciliations, wondering about the fate of both the characters, and their own realities.
“Can anyone alter fate? All of us combined...or one great figure...or someone strategically placed, who happens to be in the right spot. Chance. Accident. And our lives, our world, hanging on it.”
PKD did not delve into the traditional sci-fi themes of mad scientists and alien giants, instead he developed the literary finesse and psychological depth of this genre and heightened social awareness.
“Perhaps if you know you are insane then you are not insane.”
(a personal favorite quote of mine!)
REFERENCES
Brown, E. (2001). Introduction. In Dick, P.K., The Man in the High Castle (p.v-xii). London: Penguin.
Dick, P.K. (2001; 1962). The Man in the High Castle.London: Penguin.
I like how you made aware PKD's ability to be such an amazing SciFi writer, without it being about space aliens, other dimensions. Instead he spins reality in such a believeable way, it leave you wondering what the world could be life, if something happened (aka - a storyline similar to the Man in the High Castle. Its a much more in depth sci fi and leaves you thinking, which is perferable in my opinion.
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