Douglas Coupland's Novels

Paper Summary:

This paper explores the underlying themes in two of Douglas Coupland's novels, "Microserfs" and "Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture." The most predominant theme in both works of writing is the fear of death. Coupland uses this fear, as well as others, to aid in the characters' journey of self-discovery. There is a very clear and present need for the characters to find themselves in both of Coupland's observant and self-conscious novels. Coupland identifies immediately, before one can go so far as to open either book, that what is about to be read is a story of a generation different than any other. This paper discusses the plot of both novels while supplying an analysis of the main characters. The characters' witty, philosophical looks on life, death and morality demonstrate their fear of death. This very morbid fear underlies all of the characters in both works of writing.

From the Paper:

"Another trait that is identified within the novels, is the need to not have material things. This trait is well established in many of today's pop culture. Coupland observes of our society that those in search of a pure existence cast away material objects and try to live with as little as possible. In Generation X, Coupland's character Andy gave something different to his family for a Christmas present. Instead of purchasing some material, and inevitably never used gift, he made a moment to remember. The day before Christmas, Andy went out and bought hundreds of candles. Christmas morning, before everyone stumbled out of bed and made for the living room to open presents, Andy lit all of his many hundred candles. The room was glowing."

More papers on Douglas Coupland's Novels:

• Analytical Essay # 67190 : "Alienation in "Generation X"
• Analytical Essay # 34920 : "Generation X"
• Book Review # 140080 : "Two Canadian Novels"

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