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Zero K
288 pages, 2017
The heart of humanity is language, and the greatest novel in years is a celebration of this truth by one of our finest writers. Jeffrey Lockhart’s billionaire father, Ross, is dying; his younger wife, Artis Martineau, is also on her deathbed.
The two are spending their last days at a secret compound where bodies are preserved until a future time when biomedical advances and new technologies can return them to life—a kind of afterlife in which there is no death.
It’s an uncertain farewell for Jeffrey as he visits his dying father and his ailing stepmother: “We are born without choosing to be; should we have to die in the same manner? Isn’t it a human glory to refuse to accept a certain fate?”
In Zero K, Don DeLillo explores the concept of immortality through the lens of science and technology. He presents a world where death can be delayed indefinitely, prompting us to question our own mortality and the ethical implications of such advancements.
DeLillo's book takes a deep look into the effects of isolation on the human psyche. The protagonist's father chooses to isolate himself in a cryogenic facility, which leads to a profound exploration of loneliness and the human need for connection.
Zero K is a testament to DeLillo's mastery of language. He uses his unique writing style to create a vivid and immersive world. The book encourages us to appreciate the power of words and the role they play in shaping our reality.
The book prompts us to question the value of life in a world where death can be postponed indefinitely. It's a thought-provoking read that encourages us to reflect on the meaning of life and the importance of living in the present.
Zero K offers a critical look at the influence of technology on society. It explores how advancements in science and technology can blur the line between reality and fantasy, and challenges us to consider the potential consequences of such progress.
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Zero K is a masterful meditation on time, mortality, and the fragility and preciousness of human life. It's a book that not only makes you think, but makes you feel, deeply and profoundly.
Michiko Kakutani - Pulitzer-winning criticZero K is a profound exploration of what it means to be human. It's a book that challenges us to confront our deepest fears and uncertainties.
Jonathan Derbyshire - British philosopherZero K is a haunting and deeply affecting examination of the human condition. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.
Alex Preston - English novelist