Introduction to ‘The Ancients’

John Larison’s novel, ‘The Ancients,’ immerses readers in an imaginative and dystopian future, which holds a mirror to our present challenges. Described as a richly imagined journey, this novel serves both as a cautionary tale and a provocative exploration of human resilience and adaptability.

The Journey of the Protagonists

The narrative follows a young boy and his older sisters who find themselves orphaned in an abandoned fishing village. Facing dwindling food supplies and harsh conditions, they set off across a breathtaking yet perilous wilderness, in search of the few remaining members of their community. Meanwhile, their mother is captured and transported to the last port city of a collapsing empire. Determined to reunite with her children, she not only sets plans for her escape but also grapples with the hopes of her fellow captives, stirring the embers of rebellion.

Thematic Elements of Hope and Survival

At its core, ‘The Ancients’ is about the enduring spirit of humanity. As climate change reshapes their world, the children and their mother symbolize hope and determination. Another significant character, a scholar within the empire, inherits the weight of privilege and debt, which complicates his choices in a society teetering on the brink of collapse. These intertwined narratives culminate in a powerful exploration of who will inherit the remnants of civilization and how their stories will be told. Through Larison’s skilled storytelling, ‘The Ancients’ extends an invitation to reflect on our own legacies and the stewardship of our planet.