Erewhon Revisited By: Samuel Butler (1835-1902)
Erewhon Revisited by Samuel Butler is a thought-provoking and unconventional novel that continues the narrative of its predecessor, Erewhon. Set in the fictional land of Erewhon, Butler presents a fascinating exploration of societal norms, morality, and the consequences of progress. The story follows the protagonist, Higgs, as he travels back to Erewhon, a utopian civilization he had previously visited years before. Higgs is astounded to find that this once harmonious and progressive society has faltered and regressed in the time he was away. Through Higgs’ observations and interactions, Butler skillfully examines the nature of civilization and progress, unravelling deep-rooted flaws that plague societal structures. One of the most intriguing aspects of Erewhon Revisited is Butler’s satirical portrayal of various institutions and ideologies. With wit and irony, Butler takes aim at organized religion, bureaucracy, and the dogma of science. He exposes the flaws and contradictions inherent in these systems, provoking readers to question the commonly accepted norms of their own society. While the novel is infused with subtle humor and satire, it also delves into complex ethical questions. Butler explores the morality of progress, challenging the notion that technological advancements and societal growth are always beneficial. He cleverly juxtaposes the advances of Erewhon with their unintended consequences, cautioning against unchecked progress and the dangers of placing blind faith in human achievements. Erewhon Revisited also delves into themes of identity and individuality. Higgs himself grapples with his own transformation and altered perception of Erewhon upon his return. Through his journey, readers are confronted with the idea that personal growth and self-discovery often come at the cost of leaving behind the familiar and comfortable. However, the novel does have its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with moments of intense philosophical discussion followed by lulls in the plot. The narrative can also be dense with descriptions and digressions, which may deter readers seeking a more casual or fast-paced reading experience. Overall, Erewhon Revisited is a stimulating and thought-provoking novel that delves into deep philosophical and societal questions. Butler’s satirical lens challenges readers to reassess their own assumptions about progress, morality, and the human condition. Though it may not be for everyone due to its dense prose and slower pacing, those willing to engage with its intricate themes will find a compelling and rewarding literary journey within its pages. First Page: EREWHON REVISITED TWENTY YEARS LATER Both by the Original Discoverer of the Country and by his Son I forget when, but not very long after I had published "Erewhon" in 1872, it occurred to me to ask myself what course events in Erewhon would probably take after Mr. Higgs, as I suppose I may now call him, had made his escape in the balloon with Arowhena. Given a people in the conditions supposed to exist in Erewhon, and given the apparently miraculous ascent of a remarkable stranger into the heavens with an earthly bride what would be the effect on the people generally? There was no use in trying to solve this problem before, say, twenty years should have given time for Erewhonian developments to assume something like permanent shape, and in 1892 I was too busy with books now published to be able to attend to Erewhon. It was not till the early winter of 1900, i.e. as nearly as may be thirty years after the date of Higgs's escape, that I found time to deal with the question above stated, and to answer it, according to my lights, in the book which I now lay before the public. I have concluded, I believe rightly, that the events described in Chapter XXIV. of "Erewhon" would give rise to such a cataclysmic change in the old Erewhonian opinions as would result in the development of a new religion... Continue reading book >>

Erewhon Revisited By: Samuel Butler (1835-1902)

Erewhon Revisited by Samuel Butler is a thought-provoking and unconventional novel that continues the narrative of its predecessor, Erewhon. Set in the fictional land of Erewhon, Butler presents a fascinating exploration of societal norms, morality, and the consequences of progress.

The story follows the protagonist, Higgs, as he travels back to Erewhon, a utopian civilization he had previously visited years before. Higgs is astounded to find that this once harmonious and progressive society has faltered and regressed in the time he was away. Through Higgs’ observations and interactions, Butler skillfully examines the nature of civilization and progress, unravelling deep-rooted flaws that plague societal structures.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Erewhon Revisited is Butler’s satirical portrayal of various institutions and ideologies. With wit and irony, Butler takes aim at organized religion, bureaucracy, and the dogma of science. He exposes the flaws and contradictions inherent in these systems, provoking readers to question the commonly accepted norms of their own society.

While the novel is infused with subtle humor and satire, it also delves into complex ethical questions. Butler explores the morality of progress, challenging the notion that technological advancements and societal growth are always beneficial. He cleverly juxtaposes the advances of Erewhon with their unintended consequences, cautioning against unchecked progress and the dangers of placing blind faith in human achievements.

Erewhon Revisited also delves into themes of identity and individuality. Higgs himself grapples with his own transformation and altered perception of Erewhon upon his return. Through his journey, readers are confronted with the idea that personal growth and self-discovery often come at the cost of leaving behind the familiar and comfortable.

However, the novel does have its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with moments of intense philosophical discussion followed by lulls in the plot. The narrative can also be dense with descriptions and digressions, which may deter readers seeking a more casual or fast-paced reading experience.

Overall, Erewhon Revisited is a stimulating and thought-provoking novel that delves into deep philosophical and societal questions. Butler’s satirical lens challenges readers to reassess their own assumptions about progress, morality, and the human condition. Though it may not be for everyone due to its dense prose and slower pacing, those willing to engage with its intricate themes will find a compelling and rewarding literary journey within its pages.

First Page:

EREWHON REVISITED TWENTY YEARS LATER Both by the Original Discoverer of the Country and by his Son

I forget when, but not very long after I had published "Erewhon" in 1872, it occurred to me to ask myself what course events in Erewhon would probably take after Mr. Higgs, as I suppose I may now call him, had made his escape in the balloon with Arowhena. Given a people in the conditions supposed to exist in Erewhon, and given the apparently miraculous ascent of a remarkable stranger into the heavens with an earthly bride what would be the effect on the people generally?

There was no use in trying to solve this problem before, say, twenty years should have given time for Erewhonian developments to assume something like permanent shape, and in 1892 I was too busy with books now published to be able to attend to Erewhon. It was not till the early winter of 1900, i.e. as nearly as may be thirty years after the date of Higgs's escape, that I found time to deal with the question above stated, and to answer it, according to my lights, in the book which I now lay before the public.

I have concluded, I believe rightly, that the events described in Chapter XXIV. of "Erewhon" would give rise to such a cataclysmic change in the old Erewhonian opinions as would result in the development of a new religion... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Philosophy

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Wikipedia – Samuel Butler
Wikipedia – Erewhon Revisited

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