Analysis of Octavia Butler's Dawn - Book Report/Review Example

Bizarre and repelling “Dawn”, the first of the ‘Xenogenesis’ series had a human touch, which is as compelling as it is unthinkable.  “Dawn” is a sort of awakening after the “humanicide” (Butler, 1947 – 2006) destruction caused to the Earth through violent wars and mass homicides. As seen through the author’s eyes, the Oankali, a nomadic alien species are seen as genetic manipulators and traders who besides restoring humankind to their reconstructed Earth, were badly in need of trading their genes which were vital to the survival of their species.

Lilith is chosen by the Oankali to be their mediator and is given the duty of convincing the humans that the actions of the Oankali are going to benefit all the humans. Fearing the inevitable on awaking the first human she states “You seemed least likely to try to kill me, least likely to fall apart, and most likely to be able to help with the others as they awaken” (Butler 129) Through this sentence we come to understand Butler’s message that humans are always fearful of the future and that which cannot be seen.

Butler’s message comes out to her audience loud and clear that humans have to take care of their Earth and stop its destruction or it might be overtaken by a power more greater than themselves. ‘Dawn’ may be fictional in presentation but it is more humane in its message.