George Saunders’s new novel, Vigil, unfolds a gripping ghost story. A wealthy oil tycoon, KJ Boone, faces spectral visitors on his deathbed. These ghosts challenge him to confront the consequences of his actions, particularly his role in the climate crisis.
Saunders, known for his unique storytelling, often delves into themes of memory and mortality. “Ghosts help us see the past,” he says, remarking on how they can offer a deeper understanding of life’s complexities. “When you think about mortality, the trivial things fade away,” he explains.
At 67, Saunders reflects on his own brush with death. Years ago, he survived a plane incident that left him shaken. He recalls the moment vividly. Just after takeoff, geese struck the plane, creating chaos. In those intense moments, his thoughts drifted away from family and writing to a primal fear of losing his life.
What stands out about Saunders is how he blends humor with serious themes. His storytelling is compassionate yet incisive, often offering readers a new lens on society. “Literature has the power to make us better people,” he believes. Reflecting on the state of the world, he often seeks to ask difficult questions rather than provide easy answers.
His latest work, Vigil, also introduces Jill Blaine, a ghostly character who embodies compassion. She aims to guide KJ Boone by urging him to see his life from a different perspective. Jill’s story underscores that our circumstances may not be entirely of our choosing. This idea resonates with many today, echoing sentiments from a 2021 Pew Research study which found that 65% of Americans believe external factors greatly influence life outcomes.
Saunders grew up in Oak Forest, south Chicago, in a family that ran a fried-chicken franchise. His eclectic upbringing shaped his views. Early influences included diverse readings, from Machiavelli to books tackling poverty in America. His path to writing was unconventional. After working in oil exploration, he shifted gears and began penning fiction while navigating life’s ups and downs.
Today, he teaches creative writing at Syracuse University and connects with a broad audience through his bi-weekly Story Club on Substack, which has over 315,000 subscribers. The comments he receives surprise him—people engage thoughtfully, sparking deeper conversations about creativity and empathy.
Saunders sees writing as a way to bridge divides, especially in a politically charged atmosphere. He acknowledges the difficulty of discussing politics without alienating others, stressing the importance of understanding opposing views. “To really listen to others can be profound,” he muses.
In Vigil, he aims to explore the moral complexities of climate change. He wonders about those who knowingly hid critical information and whether they reflect on their choices. “Can we understand their perspective?” he asks. This work encourages readers to think critically about accountability in our actions and the broader impacts on humanity.
As he prepares for the book’s launch in January 2024, Saunders remains committed to crafting narratives that resonate. “My goal is always to create worlds that inspire compassion,” he concludes.
George Saunders is more than just a storyteller; he’s a cultural commentator, urging us to confront uncomfortable truths with humor and empathy. Reading his works, including Vigil, unlocks a chance to reflect on our lives and choices, offering insight into the human experience.
