“Sleeping Beauties” by Olga de Benoist.

The world of the future. Humanity is faced with a nightmarish catastrophe. Is sleep always as harmless as it seems? In this futuristic novel set in Paris, a man is faced with a terrible choice. Will be he able to remain himself in the process?

“The Sleeping Beauties” (“Спящие красавицы”) by Olga de Benoist, an evocative novella, paints a vivid portrayal of human despair, societal decay, and the ephemeral nature of human connections. Set against the backdrop of a dystopian world, the narrative follows characters trapped in the monotony and agony of their existence, offering a grim reflection on the human condition.

The novella begins with a depiction of a seemingly endless rain, reminiscent of the biblical flood, which sets a melancholic and oppressive tone. The central character, Noah, a young boy marked by his vibrant red hair and freckles, is juxtaposed with the ceaseless downpour, symbolizing a longing for escape and the warmth of summer. His conversations with his father about the rain being a natural disaster and the concept of pairs reveal a deeper existential inquiry into human relationships and suffering.

Themes and Analysis

Isolation and Despair:

Isolation is a recurring theme throughout the novella, depicted poignantly through the character of Georges. His waking hours are marred by a profound sense of helplessness and dread for the day ahead, captured in the line, “He wakes up already exhausted and unfit for anything”. Georges’ reliance on alcohol to numb his thoughts and the contrast between his cherished memories with his wife, Stephanie, and his present despair, underscore his isolation.

The Human Condition and Suffering:

The narrative delves deeply into the human condition, exploring the relentless passage of time and its impact on individuals. Georges’ reflections on aging and his struggle to reconcile with his mortality are profoundly expressed: “Each time waking up becomes harder”. The introduction of the ChNT epidemic, which plunges women into a deep sleep, serves as a metaphor for societal apathy and the commodification of human beings.

Societal Decay and Ethical Dilemmas:

The novella does not shy away from critiquing societal decay, particularly through the portrayal of political and ethical dilemmas. The discussions on the modification of legal codes to address economic and social issues highlight a moral crisis, where human bodies and lives are commodified. This is evident in the interview with Frédéric Somier, where he discusses the potential economic benefits of altering the legal status of human bodies, suggesting a future where even the most personal aspects of humanity are subjected to market forces.

Memory and Identity:

Memory and identity play crucial roles in shaping the characters’ experiences and actions. Georges’ memories of Stephanie, encapsulated in his tender yet tragic care for her comatose body, reflect his struggle to hold onto a past that defines him. The novella’s exploration of ChNT, a disease that suspends women in a perpetual state of sleep, questions the essence of identity when one’s conscious self is no longer accessible.

Literary Style

The author employs a rich, descriptive style that enhances the novella’s somber mood. The vivid imagery of the incessant rain, the claustrophobic settings, and the intimate portrayal of the characters’ inner turmoil create an immersive experience. Dialogues are sparse but impactful, often revealing profound truths about the characters and their world.

“Sleeping Beauties” is a poignant exploration of the depths of human despair and the ethical complexities of a decaying society. Through its compelling characters and thought-provoking themes, the novella challenges readers to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. It is a haunting reminder of the fragility of human connections and the inexorable passage of time.

The novella’s strength lies in its ability to evoke strong emotional responses and its unflinching examination of the darker aspects of human existence. It stands as a testament to the power of literature to illuminate the complexities of the human soul.