Jeff Vandermeer's Acceptance is an apocalyptic science fiction novel set in a decaying, post-apocalyptic future. The world as we know it has ended, leaving behind a future that is populated by fierce creatures, genetically engineered organisms, and mysterious forces in control of the present. In this new world, many of humanity's hopes for the future have been dashed, but some still cling to their beliefs and resist the power of the mysterious “Acceptors” that control their fate.
The story follows a group of people as they seek to discover the secrets of the Acceptors, and how to defeat them. The protagonists come from various backgrounds and all have something to contribute to the cause. They come from all around the world, from the species Homo Organicus to a freed animal hybrid called a Chaonian. Together, they form a close-knit group working together to uncover the mysteries of their future world.
The setting, then, is an unfamiliar world, but it is also one that readers can easily relate to, due to its sci-fi themes. Jeff Vandermeer's exploration of the potential consequences of scientific and technological progress is as thought-provoking as it is eerie. Acceptance is also full of nuanced characters, each of whom have their own motivations and wants—all of which become more and more complex as the story progresses.
The novel also deals with the issue of identity, examining how the idea of a person’s ‘self’ can be viewed in different ways. It explores how identity can be distorted and manipulated, and how a person’s life can be sacrificed for the sake of others—even those who may not even exist. The question of “Who are we?” is woven throughout the story, and readers are left to ponder the answer as the story reaches its climax.
At its heart, Acceptance is a story about acceptances. It is about accepting the consequences of our actions, both for ourselves and for the environment. The novel also offers commentary on the power of fear and the dangers of technology, pushing readers to think about our relationship with the world we have shaped.
Despite its sci-fi setting, the story ultimately deals with what it means to be human and to choose our own destinies, despite the overwhelming power of forces beyond our control. In Acceptance, Vandermeer creates a world of complex characters, complex motivations and complex choices, leaving readers with plenty of thought-provoking material. If you enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, then this book is definitely worth a read.
