Stories That Present Dystopian Visions of the World - Essay Example

Said the Ticktockman all present a dystopian vision of society that presents an outside interpretation of proper existence. This essay examines these stories, considering the ways one would need to behave to function within their fictional visions.

In considering how to exist within the fictional world of Shirley Jackson’s ‘The Lottery’ there are several notable elements that one must consider. In this dystopian presentation, children sharpen stones in anticipation of a lottery drawing that is set to occur. The image is slightly surreal as the ominous connotations of the act are juxtaposed with a flippant sort of glee and anticipation on the part of the citizenry. In considering how one would need to behave in such a society, it’s clear that the most important concept would be to accept the absurd premise that the story is founded upon, with the same enthusiasm as the other characters.

For instance, in describing the lottery ceremony, the villagers are described as actively embracing the ceremonial aspects. Jackson writes, “The people separated goodhumoredly” and also indicated individuals said, “’ You’re in time, though. They’re still talking away up there” (Jackson). This is a general indication that rather than being a sort of funeral ceremony, one would need to act as if they were attending graduation. While some individuals voice a small degree of objection to the stoning ceremony, indicating that other villages have ceased this process, they are quickly put down for being fools. It’s clear that in this specific village, one must behave with a general acceptance of the ceremony and the various connotations it carries, or else being risks an outcast or rebel.

While Le Guin presents this sort of free-spirited depiction of society, it’s clear that hers is not a Romanticist account that idealizes primitivism. Rather, she states, “These were not simple folk, nor dulcet shepherds, noble savages, bland utopians. They were no less complex than we were. The trouble is that we have a bad habit, encouraged by pedants and sophisticates, of considering happiness as something rather stupid” (Le Guin). Instead, Le Guin’s vision of this society is unencumbered by many social restraints that society has developed, yet consciously and intelligently aware of their place in the universe.

This is a society in which one would have to behave in peace with many of the natural elements of the universe and recognize that the technological advancements of civilization do not present an increased level of happiness or satisfaction. As Le Guin advances the story, reference is made to a boy housed inside the room. This boy represents the suffering and guilt of the land. While this is a complex narrative element, it seems that if one were to exist in the Omela world one must remain cognizant of this child, while at the same time enjoying their freedom and utopian lifestyle. If one does not behave in this way, then they have the option of walking away from the land and embracing a different way of life.

Harlan Ellison’s short story ‘Repent, Harlequin! Said the Ticktockman’ presents a complex narrative account of a future dystopian world. In this world, time is strictly regulated by an individual derisively referred to as the Ticktockman. Ellison writes, “You don’t call a man a hateful name; not when that man, behind his mask, is capable of revoking the minutes, the hours, the days and nights, the years of your life. He was called the Master Timekeeper to his mark. It was safer that way” (Ellison). In this world, one must behave in direct allegiance with time, because if one is late then the amount of time they are late will be removed from their life. One man decides to rebel against this absurdity, but it’s clear that if one wanted to fit into this society they would have to place great emphasis on being prompt.

In conclusion, the three stories examined present dystopian visions of the world. This essay has argued that despite the general absurdity of the premises, an individual would need to embrace these social concepts, including stoning, leaving a boy in torture, and hefty crimes for being late, if they desired to function within these social orders. Ultimately the stories function to give readers a greater perspective on the social order in which they live. Read More