Simon Stålenhag’s The Electric State is a remarkable blend of science fiction, dystopian storytelling, and evocative art, creating an immersive experience that transports readers into an alternate version of America in the late 1990s. Known for his unique ability to combine hauntingly realistic digital paintings with thought-provoking narratives, Stålenhag has crafted a deeply unsettling yet profoundly moving tale that explores themes of technology, decay, and human resilience.
A Dystopian Road Trip
At its core, The Electric State is a road trip story, following a teenage girl named Michelle and her robotic companion as they traverse a ruined version of the United States. The story unfolds through a series of diary-like passages, accompanied by stunning, surreal illustrations that bring the world to life. Michelle is on a journey to the west coast, seeking closure and an understanding of her past, as society crumbles around her.
The setting is a world where an insidious technology, known as “neural headsets,” has infiltrated everyday life. These devices, originally intended as a means of enhanced virtual reality entertainment, have led to a mass addiction that spirals into something far more sinister. The once-thriving cities and towns have turned into eerie ghost towns, littered with massive, abandoned combat drones and mysterious skeletal structures, remnants of an unclear war or corporate catastrophe.
A World Defined by Decay and Desolation
Stålenhag’s depiction of America in The Electric State is both breathtaking and unsettling. His artwork captures vast, empty landscapes where remnants of advanced technology contrast starkly against the natural world. The giant, decaying war machines serve as ominous monuments to a past that is both unknown and uncomfortably familiar. The society once fueled by consumerism and innovation has fallen into a state of disrepair, where the few remaining survivors seem trapped in a state of confusion and loss.
What makes this world so powerful is the way it mirrors real-world anxieties. The story subtly critiques the overreliance on technology, the consequences of unchecked corporate control, and the loss of human connection in the face of digital escapism. In Stålenhag’s vision, technology, initially designed to bring pleasure and convenience, has instead led to isolation and destruction.
Themes of Technology and Addiction
One of the most compelling aspects of The Electric State is its commentary on technology and addiction. The neural headsets, intended as a breakthrough in entertainment and communication, have become tools of mass manipulation. Users become disconnected from reality, living in a virtual dream world while their physical bodies waste away. This dystopian aspect resonates strongly in today’s world, where concerns about screen addiction, social media influence, and artificial intelligence dominate discussions about the future of technology.
Michelle’s journey represents a resistance to this technological oppression. As she moves through the desolate landscape, encountering the remnants of a society that succumbed to its own inventions, she becomes a symbol of both loss and hope. Her personal struggles intertwine with the broader societal collapse, making her journey an emotionally charged exploration of grief, identity, and survival.
The Role of the Robot Companion
Michelle is accompanied by a small, sentient robot that serves as both a guardian and a symbol of the lingering connection between humanity and technology. Unlike the massive, lifeless war machines that litter the landscape, this robot is personal and compassionate, adding an element of warmth to an otherwise bleak world. This contrast highlights the dual nature of technology—its potential to both harm and heal, depending on how it is used.
The bond between Michelle and her robot companion provides a glimmer of hope amidst the despair. It suggests that not all technology is inherently evil, but rather, its impact depends on the intentions and ethical considerations behind its development. This theme is particularly relevant in modern discussions about artificial intelligence, where the debate often centers around whether technology will serve humanity or lead to its downfall.
A Cinematic and Interactive Experience
One of the most striking features of The Electric State is its visual storytelling. Stålenhag’s artwork is deeply cinematic, with each painting capturing a moment frozen in time. The eerie, atmospheric compositions are reminiscent of classic dystopian films such as Blade Runner and Mad Max, but with a uniquely melancholic tone.
His use of color and lighting adds to the surreal quality of the world. The muted, dusty hues of the abandoned landscapes contrast with the glowing neon lights of the remaining technological remnants, creating a sense of unease and mystery. The paintings invite readers to linger, allowing them to absorb the depth of detail and emotion conveyed in each scene.
This blend of art and narrative creates an experience that is almost interactive, as readers must piece together the story through both words and images. There are gaps in the narrative that encourage interpretation, making The Electric State a deeply personal experience for each reader.
A Reflection of Our Own Society
While set in an alternate 1990s, The Electric State feels eerily prophetic. The themes it explores—technological overreach, the dangers of digital addiction, and the loss of human connection—are more relevant than ever. The book serves as both a cautionary tale and a reflection on contemporary society, urging readers to consider the consequences of prioritizing technological advancement over human well-being.
The story also touches on themes of corporate control and the militarization of technology. The massive, abandoned drones scattered throughout the landscape hint at a conflict driven by forces beyond the control of ordinary people. This echoes real-world concerns about automation in warfare, government surveillance, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI-driven military technology.
The Emotional Core: Grief and Acceptance
At its heart, The Electric State is a story about grief. Michelle’s journey is not just about survival; it’s about coming to terms with loss—both personal and societal. The slow unraveling of her past reveals a tragedy that fuels her quest, making her an emotionally compelling protagonist.
Her story serves as a metaphor for the grieving process itself. Just as she navigates a world filled with echoes of the past, people in mourning must navigate memories and unresolved emotions. The novel does not offer easy answers or a tidy resolution, mirroring the often ambiguous nature of real-life grief.
Conclusion: A Haunting and Beautiful Vision
The Electric State is a masterful work that transcends traditional storytelling. Simon Stålenhag’s ability to merge hauntingly beautiful visuals with a deeply moving narrative makes for an unforgettable experience. The book is not just a dystopian tale; it is a meditation on the human condition, the impact of technology, and the ways in which we cope with loss.
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the cautionary themes of The Electric State become even more relevant. It serves as a reminder that, while innovation can bring incredible benefits, it also carries risks that must be carefully managed. Through its gripping story and evocative artwork, the book challenges us to reflect on our own relationship with technology and the choices we make as a society.
Whether you approach it as a thought-provoking sci-fi narrative, a stunning art book, or a philosophical exploration of the future, The Electric State is a powerful and unforgettable experience that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
