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Frankissstein

352 pages, 2019

Takeaways
Description

Winterson uses Shelley's 1816 novel, Frankenstein, to highlight the dangers of creating artificial intelligence without having a thorough understanding of what it means to be human. Her message is brought home in a poignant way through the story of Ry, who is struggling with gender identity, and Ron, who has recently been divorced and is lonely. 

We then move on to Phoenix, Arizona, where we meet a man named Ron Lord. His business creates sex dolls for men who are single and lonely. The book continues to outline the dangers of creating life forms that have no regard for humans.

Exploration of Gender and Identity

In Frankissstein, Jeannette Winterson explores the fluidity of gender and identity. She encourages readers to question societal norms and consider how technology might impact our understanding of ourselves in the future.

The Intersection of Past and Future

Winterson cleverly intertwines the past and the future in her narrative. She uses the story of Mary Shelley writing Frankenstein to reflect on the potential future of artificial intelligence. This encourages readers to think about how our past can shape our future.

The Impact of Technology on Relationships

The book takes a deep look into how advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence, could affect human relationships. It's a thought-provoking read that will make you ponder about the future of love and connection.

The Ethical Implications of AI

Frankissstein is not just a novel, it's a philosophical exploration of the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Winterson asks readers to consider the moral boundaries of creating life-like machines.

The Power of Storytelling

Jeannette Winterson's unique storytelling style is a key takeaway from Frankissstein. She uses humor, historical references, and thought-provoking dialogue to engage readers. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to make us think deeply about complex issues.

Quotes 5

Frankissstein is a work of both pleasure and profundity, robustly and skilfully structured, and suffused with all Winterson’s usual preoccupations – gender, language, sexuality, the limits of our own bodies and the possibilities of others.

Margaret AtwoodMargaret Atwood - Canadian poet, novelist

Frankissstein is a book that seeks to shift our perspective on humanity and the purpose of being human in the most darkly entertaining way. Brilliantly long-sighted and ingeniously gruesome.

Olivia LaingOlivia Laing - British writer, critic

Frankissstein is a riotous reimagining of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, with modern-day implications, exploring artificial intelligence, gender fluidity, and the connections between life and creativity. It will make you think about what it means to be human.

Neil GaimanNeil Gaiman - Author, screenwriter

Frankissstein is a masterful reimagining of Shelley's Frankenstein for our modern age – a beautiful, sometimes heart-breaking meditation on the responsibilities of creation, the possibilities of artificial intelligence, and the implications of both for the human soul.

Sarah PerrySarah Perry - English novelist

Frankissstein is a wildly inventive reanimation of Mary Shelley's immortal novel - a reading experience as electrifying as the creature itself.

Ian McEwanIan McEwan - British novelist
Margaret AtwoodOlivia LaingNeil GaimanSarah PerryIan McEwan

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