A startling exploration of human nature and societal norms, Will Self’s 1997 novel, *Great Apes*, throws the reader headfirst into a world turned upside down.
Imagine waking up one morning to find that humans are the animals, caged and studied, while apes rule the world.
This is the unsettling reality Simon Dykes, a portrait artist, confronts in Self’s satirical masterpiece.
About Will Self’s “Great Apes”
*Great Apes* isn’t just another science fiction novel; it’s a biting commentary on human behavior, our social constructs, and the very definition of what it means to be civilized.
Self masterfully crafts a world where the power dynamics are flipped, forcing both the protagonist and the reader to question everything they thought they knew about culture, identity, and the boundaries of normalcy.
Published in 1997, this novel remains strikingly relevant today, provoking thought and challenging our preconceived notions about ourselves and the world around us.
Initial Overview of “Great Apes”
This darkly comedic and thought-provoking novel centers around Simon Dykes, a successful London artist, whose world is shattered when he wakes up in a hospital bed, convinced he’s a chimpanzee.
He’s surrounded by other humans, or rather, “apes,” who see him as delusional.
As Simon struggles to navigate this bizarre reality, he’s drawn deeper into a world of ape culture, politics, and social hierarchies, a world that mirrors our own in unsettling and often hilarious ways.
Self’s objective is clear: to hold a mirror to human society, highlighting our absurdities through the lens of the “other.”
Structure and Style of “Great Apes”
*Great Apes* is divided into chapters that chronicle Simon’s descent into, or perhaps ascent to, apedom.
Self’s writing is sharp, witty, and often grotesque, painting vivid and sometimes disturbing pictures of this alternate reality.
The development of Simon’s character is central to the novel, taking him on a journey of self-discovery as he grapples with his changing identity.
The themes explored are complex and interwoven, touching upon everything from language and communication to sexuality and power.
While some might find Self’s prose challenging, it’s this unique style that elevates the novel to another level.
Perhaps a slightly gentler introduction to the central conceit could benefit some readers, but this is a minor quibble in the grand scheme of the book’s ambitious narrative.
Delving into the Content of “Great Apes”
Simon Dykes’ journey is far from linear.
He encounters a cast of memorable characters, including the psychiatrist Dr. Zack Busner (a recurring character in Self’s works), who attempts to “cure” Simon of his delusion.
The novel explores the social dynamics of the ape community, their rituals, and their political machinations, all with a satirical edge that reflects back on our own human society.
The reader follows Simon as he attempts to reconcile his human past with his perceived ape present, a struggle that forms the core of the novel’s exploration of identity and belonging.
Self avoids didacticism; instead, he uses satire and dark humor to present his critique, allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions about the parallels between the ape world and our own.
The Ape World and Our Own in “Great Apes”
Self’s exploration extends beyond simple role reversal.
*Great Apes* delves into the very nature of consciousness, questioning what distinguishes humans from other primates.
Is it language? Is it our self-awareness?
Or are we simply more adept at creating elaborate social structures that reinforce our perceived superiority?
These questions simmer beneath the surface of the narrative, prompting reflection on the fragile constructs we build around our understanding of the world.
The novel challenges our anthropocentric worldview, forcing us to consider the possibility that our ways might not be the only, or even the best, ways.
Beyond the Book
Self’s work often draws parallels with the literary tradition of social satire, reminiscent of Jonathan Swift’s *Gulliver’s Travels*.
Where Swift used fantastical voyages to critique his contemporary society, Self uses a more contemporary lens, placing his social commentary in a world that feels both alien and strangely familiar.
This resonates with the postmodern literary landscape, challenging conventional narratives and blurring the lines between reality and perception.
For those interested in exploring this further, academic articles and literary criticisms on postmodernism can offer deeper insights (for instance, “The Routledge Companion to Postmodernism” offers a broad perspective on the topic).
Conclusion
*Great Apes* is not for the faint of heart.
It’s a challenging, thought-provoking, and often unsettling read that will stay with you long after you finish the final page.
However, for those willing to dive into Self’s twisted world, the rewards are plentiful.
This is a book that will make you laugh, make you think, and maybe even make you question your own humanity.
I highly recommend *Great Apes* to anyone who enjoys intellectually stimulating fiction, particularly those with an interest in satire, social commentary, and the exploration of human nature.
Fans of authors like Chuck Palahniuk and Bret Easton Ellis, who appreciate dark humor and unconventional narratives, might also find themselves drawn to Self’s distinctive style.
If you are looking for a book that will turn your world upside down, then Will Self’s *Great Apes* is waiting for you.
