Ian McEwan explores knowledge limits in his new novel

In New York, Ian McEwan, a Booker Prize-winning British author, announced details of his forthcoming novel titled 'What We Can Know'. The book, set for publication on September 16, 2025, presents a post-apocalyptic narrative that partially unfolds in the 22nd century. The central character of the story is a scholar who becomes deeply involved in a poem that hails from a happier era. McEwan's storytelling tackles varied themes including quest, crime, revenge, fame, tangled love, mental illness, and the enduring human spirit amidst catastrophes, both natural and self-inflicted. McEwan, who is 76 years old and has a noteworthy history of crafting narratives around disasters and human responses, aims to reflect on how past events shape present experiences. His previous works delve into pressing concerns like climate change, artificial intelligence, and societal reactions to disruptions. With 'What We Can Know', McEwan strives to connect the past, present, and future, while addressing how knowledge has transformed our understanding of the world. Jordan Pavlin, the publisher and editor-in-chief at Knopf, emphasized that the novel interrogates the boundaries of our knowledge about one another and history itself. The author intends for the narrative to prompt readers to consider lost secrets and stories from the past, raising questions about what is recoverable and what remains hidden. McEwan’s goal is to weave a complex tapestry of human experience, as he believes that even in dire circumstances, the capacity for survival, creativity, and understanding prevails. The novel promises to engage readers in a philosophical exploration of knowledge, relationships, and the enduring human spirit, underpinning McEwan's reputation as a profound storyteller. With its release approaching, literary enthusiasts anticipate how McEwan will navigate the intricate dynamics of human existence, thus adding yet another layer to his illustrious career.