Horror of the systemic unawareness : on a dystopian reality of Mira Grant’s "Newslfesh"

Streszcz. po ang., bibliogr.

In the chapter Horror of the Systemic Unawareness. On A Dystopian Reality of Mira Grant’s "Newslfesh" Krzysztof M. Maj invites a Foucauldian reading of the eponymous fear of being unaware of the truth about the "founding lie" of dystopian sociostasis. While doing so, he proceeds with an analysis of the basic components of dystopian narrative, pondering on the subtle relationships between the socalled young adult dystopias, postapocalyptic lore, and "political technology of the body" - with the latter being an ultimate tool of authoritatian control observed in Newsflesh trilogy. Simultaneously, the chapter serves as a concise introduction to contemporary world-centered dystopian narratives, greatly inspired by a deconstructive approach to utopian and dystopian studies,with a particular emphasis on the subversion of metaphysical paradigms and binary oppositions, critique of logocentrism and panopticism, or dissemination of power/knowledge. Finally, Maj argues that the state of unawareness may be both a curse and a blessing in a dystopian reality - a curse, as it strikes fear into the hearts of subdued citizens who learn thereby to be afraid of any rebellious activities, and a blessing, as it may inspire a strong individual to overcome their fear and challenge the reign of oppressive authorities.