Oryx and Crake - Speculative Fiction

Speculative Fiction

This novel greatly surrounds the idea of speculative fiction, and the manipulation of nature for efficiency and human benefit. While a few characters, such as Jimmy and his mother, disagree with this concept initially, all of the members of the compounds are in constant contact with science and its products.

Although Atwood elaborates on many biochemical experiments that do exist today, she tends to use a much more exaggerated take on them. For instance, she interprets genetic mutation of animals as a very fantastical process. This also ties into the themes of language and commercialization, as all of the names for the mutated animals such as "wolvogs," "pigoons" and "rakunks" are rather Dr. Seuss-like, and seem to diminish the unnatural and manipulative purposes for their creation. (An example of this would be the "wolvogs," who are designed to appear like an adorable, domesticated house pet, but are trained to deceive and harm like an untamed wolf).

Another instance of her embellished view on such experiments would be genetic mutation for human benefit. We see many much of this today in regards to food production, although not to the extent portrayed in this book. Here we are introduced to a world filled with "ChickieNobs," a horribly deformed experiment that is useful in the mass-production of chicken breasts.

Near the end of the novel she introduces the idea of the "Crakers," or genetically engineered, herbivorous humans who only have sexual intercourse for the main function of human reproduction. The goal of Crake, the creator of these creatures, is to construct a peaceful society where everyone can live harmoniously and be one with nature. Atwood implies that this plan will backfire as it disrupts the cycle of nature.