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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Chapter 13
Explanation and Analysis—Fire:
Throughout the novel, fire is a motif that represents destruction and chaos throughout the novel. Fires due to environmental reasons, arsonists, and finally, addicts of the drug pyro demonstrate how suffocating and inescapable the apocalyptic environment of the novel is.
In the following passage from Chapter 13, Lauren describes the increase in arson and crime in her neighborhood:
People are setting more fire to cover crimes [...] People are setting fires because they're frustrated, angry, hopeless. They have no power to improve their lives, but they have the power to make others even more miserable. And the only way to prove to yourself that you have power is to use it.
Here, fire represents destruction as well as power. Lauren explains that at this point in the demise of her society, the only power people hold is to hurt and destroy others. Fire, then, offers a means to exercise that power while also dispensing their frustration. Lauren implies that the spread of fire has destroyed not only physical but societal structures. As long as people continue to steal and disregard others' lives, destruction will persist.
Lauren continues that another reason for the increase in fire is the spread of a new drug, pyro:
Then there's that fire drug with its dozen or so names: Blaze, fuego, flash, sunfire [...] It makes watching the leaping, changing patterns of fire a better, more intense, longer-lasting high than sex.
The spread and abuse of highly dangerous drugs is another signal of the destruction of society. As a motif, fire as a drug represents another, less obviously violent mode of destruction that is just as dangerous as a physical fire. The complete lack of governmental authority makes it so the spread of such a drug can't be curtailed effectively.
However, the constant presence of fire also serves as motivation and opportunity for rebirth. Because of fire, Lauren is forced not only to leave her home community but also to rebuild Bankole's family home with the tenets of Earthseed. Ultimately, fire creates a deficit in which Lauren builds Earthseed, which signifies a rebirth of hope.
Related Themes:
