What are the common themes in extinction fiction books?

The relationship between humans and the environment is another common theme. In 'extinction novels' like 'Oryx and Crake', we see how human interference with the natural order, through things like genetic engineering, can lead to a downward spiral towards extinction. These novels often warn us about the importance of taking care of our environment and not over - exploiting it.

One characteristic is the exploration of environmental themes. Many 1990s extinction fiction books were influenced by the growing awareness of environmental issues at that time. They often depicted a world where nature was out of balance and species were disappearing at an alarming rate. For example, some books might show a future where deforestation and pollution have led to the extinction of many animals and a threat to human survival.

Another good extinction fiction book is 'Oryx and Crake' by Margaret Atwood. It explores a future where genetic engineering has led to a catastrophic event that nearly wipes out humanity. It's a thought - provoking look at the consequences of scientific overreach.

One great book is 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy. It depicts a post - apocalyptic world after some kind of extinction - level event. The story follows a father and son as they struggle to survive in a desolate and dangerous landscape filled with scavengers and little hope. Another is 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' which shows different time periods after a nuclear - like cataclysm and how society and religion are affected over time. Also, 'Lucifer's Hammer' is about an asteroid impact and the chaos and survival efforts that follow.

Power struggles are common. In historical fiction, we often see characters vying for power, whether it's political power like in 'A Game of Thrones' (although it's a fictionalized version of a historical - like setting). Cultural clashes are another theme. When different cultures meet, as in books about the colonization era, it creates interesting storylines. And of course, the theme of survival. Characters in historical fictions have to survive in difficult times, like the early settlers in America as portrayed in some books.

One common theme is mental illness. Often, the characters in these books are dealing with depression, anxiety or other psychological disorders that contribute to their suicidal thoughts. For example, in 'The Bell Jar', Esther Greenwood's struggle with depression is a central aspect.

Love is a very common theme. It can be romantic love between characters, like in 'Pride and Prejudice'. Another common theme is the struggle for power, as seen in 'Game of Thrones'. Also, the theme of self - discovery is quite frequent, where characters learn about themselves and their place in the world, for example in 'The Alchemist'.

One common theme is the struggle for survival. When a character is kidnapped, they have to find ways to endure the situation, like in 'Room'. Another theme is the search for truth. In books like 'Gone Girl', the truth about the so - called kidnapping is much more complex than it first appears. Also, the theme of redemption can be found. For example, in some stories, the kidnapper might have a past that led them to this act, and there could be a journey towards redemption.

One common theme is the struggle against nature. For example, in 'The Old Man and the Sea', the old man battles the sea and the big fish. Another theme is human resilience. In 'Unbroken', the protagonist endures so much in the war and in the face of nature's hardships. Also, self - discovery is often a theme. As in 'Wild', the woman on her journey of survival also discovers a lot about herself.

One common theme is power and control. The kidnapper often tries to exert control over the victim, like in 'The Collector'. Another theme is the psychological impact on the victim and sometimes the kidnapper too. In 'Room', we see how the mother and son deal with the trauma of being held captive.