We Know Too Much and Too Little.
Introduction
Marge Piercy's "He, She and It," published in 1991, is a remarkable work of speculative fiction that dives into themes of humanity, technology, and identity. Set in a dystopian future, the novel intertwines cyberpunk elements with profound philosophical questions, presenting a gripping narrative that challenges the reader to rethink the boundaries between human and machine. Piercy, known for her incisive social commentary and feminist perspective, crafts a story that is both a cautionary tale and a visionary exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly digital world.
Synopsis
"He, She and It" is set in the mid-21st century, where environmental collapse and corporate dominance have drastically altered society. The world is divided into the multis, high-tech domed cities controlled by multinational corporations, and the impoverished, chaotic "glop"—the polluted and unregulated areas between these corporate enclaves. The story follows Shira Shipman, a brilliant cybernetics expert who loses custody of her son and returns to her hometown, Tikva, a Jewish free town, to start anew.
In Tikva, Shira reunites with her grandmother, Malkah, and takes on a secretive project involving Yod, an advanced cyborg created to protect the community from corporate threats. Unlike typical robots, Yod is designed to be as human-like as possible, with emotions and autonomy. As Shira and Yod grow closer, their relationship raises complex questions about love, humanity, and the ethical implications of creating sentient beings.
Parallel to Shira and Yod's story is the historical narrative of the Golem of Prague, a legendary figure from Jewish folklore. Malkah recounts this tale, drawing poignant parallels between the golem—a clay figure brought to life to protect the Jewish people—and Yod, exploring themes of creation, power, and the consequences of playing God.
Thematic Analysis
1. Humanity and Artificial Intelligence
At the heart of "He, She and It" is the exploration of what it means to be human. Yod, despite being a cyborg, exhibits traits typically associated with humanity: emotions, moral dilemmas, and the capacity for love. Piercy challenges the reader to consider whether humanity is defined by biological origin or by behavior and consciousness. Yod's struggles with his identity and purpose reflect broader questions about the role and rights of artificial intelligences in society. This theme resonates with contemporary debates about AI ethics, the potential for machines to possess consciousness, and the moral responsibilities of their creators.
2. Feminism and Gender
Piercy's feminist perspective permeates the novel, particularly in its depiction of Shira and her struggles against patriarchal structures. Shira's journey is one of empowerment, as she moves from a position of vulnerability—losing her son and her place in the corporate world—to reclaiming her strength and autonomy in Tikva. The novel critiques the ways in which technology and society often marginalize women, while also highlighting the potential for feminist principles to inform and reshape technological advancements.
The relationship between Shira and Yod also subverts traditional gender roles. Yod, although male in form, embodies qualities traditionally seen as feminine, such as empathy and nurturing, complicating the binary understanding of gender. This nuanced portrayal encourages a rethinking of gender norms and the fluidity of identity in both human and artificial beings.
3. Jewish Identity and Cultural Survival
Tikva, the Jewish free town, serves as a microcosm for exploring issues of cultural survival and identity. In a world dominated by homogenizing corporate cultures, Tikva's preservation of Jewish traditions and values stands as an act of resistance. The inclusion of the Golem of Prague narrative underscores the enduring relevance of Jewish folklore and its themes of protection and community in the face of external threats.
Malkah's storytelling bridges past and present, emphasizing the importance of cultural memory and the ways in which historical narratives can inform contemporary struggles. The novel thus becomes a meditation on the resilience of marginalized communities and the ways they navigate and resist oppressive forces.
4. Environmental and Corporate Dystopia
Piercy paints a grim picture of a future ravaged by environmental degradation and corporate greed. The stark contrast between the lush, nature-integrated Tikva and the polluted, corporate-controlled cities underscores the novel's critique of unchecked technological and economic exploitation. This environmental dystopia serves as a warning about the potential consequences of current trends in globalization, climate change, and corporate overreach.
Through Tikva's sustainable practices and community-oriented ethos, Piercy offers a vision of an alternative future—one that prioritizes ecological balance, social justice, and collective well-being. The novel thus not only critiques the present trajectory but also proposes a hopeful, albeit challenging, path forward.
Conclusion
"He, She and It" is a richly layered novel that engages with critical issues of humanity, technology, and cultural identity. Marge Piercy's narrative deftly weaves together cyberpunk aesthetics with deep philosophical inquiry, creating a story that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Through the interwoven tales of Shira, Yod, and the Golem of Prague, Piercy explores the ethical dimensions of creation, the fluidity of gender and identity, and the resilience of marginalized cultures.
The novel's prescient themes and compelling characters make it a significant work of speculative fiction, one that continues to be relevant in the face of ongoing technological and societal changes. Piercy's vision of a future where humanity must confront its creations and its own nature is a powerful reminder of the stakes involved in our ongoing dance with technology. "He, She and It" challenges readers to reflect on their values, their relationships with machines, and the kind of future they wish to create.