Week 04 - Annihilation

Jeff Vandermeer’s ‘Annihilation’ proves to be a very “weird” novel. The biggest example I believe is Area X, how the main characters act because of it and how they traverse through it, and how it remains a mystery throughout the story. In the book, technology isn’t allowed, which is already an unusual statement. The characters remain unnamed. Hypnosis that can only be reflected by inhaling spores, and even the monster “The Crawler” are all elements that can be considered odd. These are not normal when compared to the real world.

 What fascinates me about the “weird” in this novel is how it’s written. The author spoon-feeds information to the reader, giving us just enough to want more and continue reading. The monsters and creatures aren’t described in detail, and the film adaptation shows only brief glimpses of them. These creatures, and Area X, are not found in the real world, and there are no rules or hints given to the biologist and her team. They were sent to explore the area, having no idea how to survive in it. Annihilation demonstrates mystery and facing the unknown. “Weird” is compelling because things that can usually be explained by science cannot be answered.

 Being unable to answer supernatural occurrences can be equally intriguing and bone-chilling. The novel leaves the reader wanting to know more, and to have explanations for everything that happens. But when there is no logical way to respond to these events, the reader’s interpretations and theories can gradually become darker and more terrifying. “Weird” can lead to many conclusions without revealing what truly lies behind it.