Writing Our Extinction: Anthropocene Fiction and Vertical Science

Mid-twentieth-century developments in science and technology produced new understandings and images of the planet that circulated the globe, contributing to accelerating crises in the global environment. Patrick Whitmarsh analyzes postwar narrative fictions that describe, depict, or express the earth from above and below, revealing how literature has engaged this history and linked it to increasing environmental precarity, up to and including the extinction of humankind.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2023
Publisher: Stanford University Press

The mid-twentieth century witnessed significant advancements in science and technology that revolutionized our understanding and portrayal of the planet. These developments not only brought forth a modern ecological consciousness but also played a pivotal role in exacerbating global environmental crises, including climate change, pollution, and waste. In his groundbreaking work, Patrick Whitmarsh delves into postwar narrative fictions that offer unique perspectives on the earth, exploring both the aerial and subterranean aspects. Through meticulous analysis, Whitmarsh uncovers how literature has engaged with the history of vertical science and interconnected it to the escalating environmental precarity, ultimately culminating in the potential extinction of humankind.

Whitmarsh examines a diverse range of literary works by authors such as Don DeLillo, Karen Tei Yamashita, Reza Negarestani, and Colson Whitehead, alongside significant postwar scientific programs such as the Space Race, atmospheric and underground nuclear testing, and geological expeditions like Project Mohole. By employing a vertical lens, these fictions draw attention to the fragility of postwar life, highlighting the intricate connections between human behavior and planetary change. Through this lens, Anthropocene fiction emerges as a powerful tool for reimagining scientific progress as a narrative that shapes the destiny of humankind.

By situating industrial history within the broader context of geological time, these fictions offer a fresh perspective on our past and present. They challenge the notion of progress as a linear journey and instead present scientific advancement as a story that unfolds over millions of years, ultimately shaping the fate of our species. Whitmarsh's work sheds light on the ethical implications of our actions and encourages us to reflect on the role we play in shaping the future of our planet.

In conclusion, Patrick Whitmarsh's work is a groundbreaking exploration of postwar narrative fictions that offer a unique perspective on the earth, highlighting the interconnections between human behavior and planetary change. Through a vertical lens, these fictions challenge our understanding of progress and encourage us to reflect on the ethical implications of our actions. By situating industrial history within the broader narrative of geological time, they offer a fresh perspective on our past and present, shaping our collective destiny for the future.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781503635548