The Postmortal

The Postmortal straddles two genres. Although it is primarily considered science fiction, many of the novel’s tensions, conspiracies, and concerns place it in the thriller category. Magary frequently engages in genre-blending practices when writing fiction, creating novels that appeal to multiple audiences. Further, the combination of genres allows the author to exploit some tropes while ignoring others, making a world that is unique to protagonist John Farrell and his experiences.

Science fiction is a type of fiction that explores an imagined society, usually set in the future, in which scientific and technological changes have significantly altered how people live. Although early science fiction typically focused on technology (featuring robots, space travel, and aliens), more recent works often include cultural critiques and dystopian views of the future (Sterling, Bruce. “Science Fiction: Literature and Performance.” Encyclopedia Britannica). Magary includes a multitude of scientific advancements in his novel, including the cure for aging and electric vehicles called “plug-ins.” These scientific advancements contribute to the dystopia the characters navigate, creating a future that, while bleak, builds upon the anxieties of our modern age. It is important to note that the technological advancements present in the novel do not solve many of the issues we currently have. Overpopulation, climate change, and war all continue in the novel, making the clear argument that technology does not solve all of humanity’s problems.

Thriller books pull on the reader’s emotions, usually with high suspense and drama. Thrillers are often mysteries but can also include crime, adventure, and espionage. Often, thrillers involve the threat of death, or at the very least, significant trials that the protagonist must undergo (Rankin, Alan. “What Are the Characteristics of the Thriller Genre?” Language Humanities). Magary has designed a world in which the threat of death is reduced significantly, but unpleasant and painful ways of dying become commonplace. This threat immediately increases the novel’s tension as it becomes clear that John will die from either a violent act or the inability to access vital resources like food. This tension grows as the world he lives in turns increasingly violent, and John becomes both the victim and perpetrator of violence. Thus, Magary creates a thriller through the lens of inevitability, increasingly exposing John to more mysteries and topics of concern without alleviation.