Echoes of Oppression: A Study of Totalitarian and Dystopian Elements in Paul Lynch’s ‘Prophet Song’

Abstract

This paper is an attempt to explore every facet of totalitarianism and dystopian literature elements found within Prophet Song by Paul Lynch. We will look closely at theories from areas of studies like totalitarianism studies, and dystopian literature, by incorporating Hannah Arendt's theories of totalitarianism using her prominent works, The Origins of Totalitarianism and Eichmann in Jerusalem. This research uses a theoretical background to analyse a dystopian novel's portrayal of a totalitarian society. It identifies various elements that create an oppressive environment, including dehumanization, reality distortion, and dystopian landscapes by incorporating the lives and sufferings main characters - Eilish, Larry, and Mr. Burke, who are victims of the regime. It also intends to show that Prophet Song is about totalitarianism but also reflects larger socio-political issues through an interdisciplinary approach. In this regard, one can find new insights into the relationships between power and authority in Lynch’s novel by relating them to dystopia since its main objective is to provide an insightful assessment of totalitarianism studies. Furthermore, it also emphasizes the novel’s significance to the present-day discussion on authoritarianism and human rights. Issues like these are very relevant to current problems in society and politics, and such issues will be highlighted to lead the deeper aspects of the literary and theoretical study, not only the political implications of totalitarian control but also its profound effects on human relationships, identity, and community areas that Arendt touched upon but did not explore in great depth.