A brilliant literary tale of upheaval and discord…
Woods presents a satirical exploration of the societal shifts and political tensions emerging in Portland, as the city cautiously emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic in his latest literary tale. Portland, Oregon. The year is 2020. Amidst a tumultuous presidency, a devastating pandemic, and escalating tensions in the streets and forests, the protagonist grapples with conflicts on all fronts—from ideological clashes to familial discord. As pandemic restrictions slightly ease, a birthday party becomes a microcosm of the unrest in society. Amidst it all, the protagonist grapples with mysterious forces embodied by the Masked One.
The story unfolds against a backdrop of political upheaval, environmental crises, and societal fragmentation. Through the lens of an unnamed narrator who enjoys provocative humor and holds non-conforming opinions, Woods delves into the complexities of language policing, ideological conformity, and the blurred lines between social justice advocacy and chaos. The protagonist’s solution to navigating this turbulent landscape is a birthday party, setting the stage for chaos and introspection. The novel challenges readers to ponder uncomfortable questions about the efficacy of social justice movements, the consequences of ideological extremism, and the role of humor in holding the powerful to account. Woods employs clever references and illustrations to underscore his points, though some may find the approach overwhelming (inspired by a 1959 Soviet dissident novella, Woods adds humor from dissident jokes to deepen the plot and add resonance to the story). Nevertheless, the novel offers a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary political and social dynamics, ultimately urging readers to embrace heterodox perspectives amidst a sea of conformity. A must-read for those willing to confront uncomfortable truths and engage in critical reflection on the complexities of modern society.
Fragility
Mosby Woods
Pub date April 20, 2023
ISBN 979-8770810417
Price $15.99 (USD) Paperback, $4.99 Kindle edition
