“Surfacing” is a novel written by Canadian author Margaret Atwood, first published in 1972.

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The novel explores themes of identity, self-discovery, environmentalism, and the impact of modern society on individuals and their connection to nature.

Thematic Thrust of “Surfacing”:

Identity and Self-Discovery:

The protagonist, who remains unnamed, embarks on a journey to her childhood home in the Quebec wilderness. As she unravels the mystery of her missing father, she confronts her own troubled past and the layers of societal expectations and norms that have shaped her identity.
The novel delves into the theme of self-discovery, as the protagonist grapples with her sense of self, the masks she wears in society, and the need to confront the suppressed aspects of her identity.

Nature and the Environment:

Nature is a central theme in “Surfacing.” The protagonist’s return to the natural landscape of her childhood becomes a metaphorical journey into the wild, both externally and internally. The novel reflects on the impact of industrialization, pollution, and environmental degradation on the land, wildlife, and human consciousness.
Atwood’s portrayal of the Canadian wilderness serves as a commentary on the intersection between nature and human civilization, raising questions about the consequences of exploitation and the importance of environmental stewardship.

Social and Political Commentary:

The novel offers a critique of modern society and its discontents. Through the protagonist’s experiences, Atwood explores themes of alienation, consumerism, and the dehumanizing effects of technology and urbanization.
The narrative incorporates social and political commentary, touching on issues such as gender roles, relationships, and the impact of cultural and linguistic differences within the broader Canadian context.

Structural Division:

“Surfacing” can be broadly divided into three sections:

Return to the Wilderness:

The protagonist, along with her friends David, Anna, and Joe, returns to the remote wilderness of her childhood home in Quebec. This section sets the stage for the exploration of the protagonist’s past, her relationships, and her evolving connection to nature.

Quest for Identity and Self-Discovery:

The middle section of the novel follows the protagonist’s internal and external journey as she searches for her missing father and confronts the layers of her own identity. Her experiences in the wild become a metaphorical journey toward self-discovery, leading to moments of psychological and emotional intensity.

The Unraveling of Reality:

The final section involves a descent into a surreal and hallucinatory state. The boundaries between the external world and the protagonist’s internal landscape blur. The narrative becomes fragmented and dreamlike as the protagonist grapples with her own perceptions, memories, and the mysteries surrounding her past.

“Surfacing” is known for its complex narrative structure, combining elements of psychological realism, symbolism, and surrealism. Atwood’s exploration of the intersections between personal, environmental, and societal themes makes the novel a multifaceted and thought-provoking work.