Dystopian Future Unveiled: Ali Smith's 'Gliff' Explores Totalitarianism and Hope Through Non-Binary Teen's Journey

October 22, 2024
Dystopian Future Unveiled: Ali Smith's 'Gliff' Explores Totalitarianism and Hope Through Non-Binary Teen's Journey
  • Each chapter title cleverly references 'Brave New World,' symbolizing Bri's resistance against totalitarianism and the significance of small acts of rebellion.

  • Bri and Rose's mother opposes smartphone use, perceiving it as a liability, which contributes to their family's marginalized status.

  • The government enforces a brutal regime, marking the homes of Unverifiables with red lines before demolishing them, further illustrating the oppressive state.

  • A pivotal moment occurs when the story jumps forward five years, showing Bri as a factory supervisor in an increasingly technocratic society.

  • The novel delves into themes of totalitarianism, the disconnect between social classes, and the dehumanization of marginalized individuals.

  • Ali Smith's seasonal quartet has reached its conclusion with the release of 'Companion Piece' in 2022, marking a significant milestone in contemporary literature.

  • 'Gliff,' Smith's follow-up novel, is set in a dystopian near future and centers on Bri, a non-binary teenager, and their sister Rose.

  • The quartet is lauded for its moral depth and relevance, serving as a guide for navigating the complexities of life in the 21st century.

  • Ultimately, the story emphasizes hope in the younger generation while warning against the dangers of neglecting the lessons from Smith's previous works.

  • In this bleak world, Bri and Rose are labeled as 'Unverifiables,' facing exclusion in a Britain rife with hostility and surveillance capitalism.

  • The title 'Gliff' refers to a horse encountered by Bri and Rose, symbolizing the care we extend to others and the complexities of communication.

  • The narrative reveals that the factory where Bri works employs child laborers, who endure severe physical harm, highlighting the dire consequences of the regime.

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