Exploring the Oceans: Richard Powers on Climate and Play

The narrative follows Evie Beaulieu, an oceanographer who, while surveying a WWII naval wreck, contemplates her mortality and desires to become part of the sea as a reef. The story is set against the backdrop of Makatea, a Polynesian atoll threatened by Californian investors aiming to exploit its resources for floating city components. The tale intertwines the lives of Rafi, a black honors student, and Todd, a white middle-class peer, who bond over strategic games and later become involved in the tech revolution through a platform called Playground. Todd achieves immense wealth from this venture, while Rafi finds himself marginalized, working as a teacher in Makatea. The narrative structure is complex, shifting between time frames and perspectives, primarily narrated by Todd, who suffers from Lewy body dementia. His condition leads to vivid hallucinations of marine life, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. This aspect of the story highlights the fragility of memory and the impact of illness on perception. The author skillfully weaves themes of environmental concern, the power of play, and the consequences of technological advancement throughout the plot. As the story unfolds, it raises questions about exploitation, the relationship between humanity and nature, and the ethical implications of progress. The reader is invited to explore these themes while navigating the intricate narrative. Ultimately, the work serves as a reflection on the interconnectedness of life, the ocean's mysteries, and the enduring quest for meaning in a rapidly changing world.