I found myself inspired by the end of this book. The final sentence really wraps it up, and I liked the color it gave to all the preceding (and proceeding?) stories. It’s not really a spoiler, but it goes something like this:
“Your efforts will be nothing but a drop in the ocean!” “What is the ocean, but a collection of drops?”
Each story seems to be about a different type of predation. Missionaries prey on natives, a rich and influential man preys on his young assistant, giant corporations prey on consumers and the public, young prey on the elderly, upper class elites prey on the lower class, powerful tribes prey on the weak tribes…
In each story, the character ends up trying to do something about it, trying to make some difference, despite how small their actions may seem when pitted against the entire oppressive world.
It is inspiring, and hopeful while at the same time seeing the world for the brutal and disgusting place that it is. I don’t think I will soon forget this one.
I keep hearing good things about the movie, though I have no idea how they could fit such a story into two hours. I mean, each part would get what, 20 minutes? But, maybe I’ll check it out. I didn’t know until recently that it was the Wachowski’s, and they are usually awesome.
Very recommended!
Jonas David 