Oryx and Crake - Technology

Technology is used in Oryx and Crake in both Jimmy’s time and Snowman’s time, but for each, it is used in a different context. For Jimmy, technology is a symbol of the progression towards a utopia. The author talks about all of these advances that are being made in the sciences, through the use of technology, such as using pigoons to cure disease and developing ways to be immortal. We also hear about Jimmy and Crakes adventures through cyberspace, hacking websites to watch porn, or playing video games in which you have to make a utopia yourself. All of these are examples of the use of technology as a positive part of life.

In Snowman’s time, technology is non-existent. Every form of technology that was being developed and produced when he was small has disappeared. It is no longer needed, because it has already been used to create a “utopia”. This pops up a lot when Snowman ventures back to the compounds to try and find food and supplies. He comes across a lot of dead computers and TV’s, radio’s and stuff used by the compound guards to keep track of information on everyone. For Snowman, these items remind him of life before. In this sense, they are negative, and something viewed as un-necessary.

For both Snowman and Jimmy’s stories, technology is used as symbolism. For Jimmy’s story, technology is used to symbolize the progression of society and the great achievements of his time. For Snowman’s story, technology is a symbol and reminder of how society has changed and, depending on your view, become better or worse.

I chose this picture because I think that it is a perfect symbol of technology taking over and becoming a part of every single part of humanity. This is what happens in Jimmy's world, and is also what causes the shift into what Snowman's world is.