신유물론을 통해 살펴본 돈 드릴로의 『제로 K』 속 물질과 인간의 얽힘

초록

This essay analyzes Don DeLillo’s Zero K (2016), a novel that explores themes of death anxiety, apocalyptic fear, and cryogenic technology while positioning matter as the narrative’s central focus through its complex entanglements with humanity. Through the lens of new materialism—specifically its negative, vital, and performative frameworks—this study examines the novel’s materialist implications. The narrative follows Jeffrey Lockhart’s journey to reunite with his father, Ross, who participates in a cryogenic preservation project at the Convergence, an underground facility catering to wealthy individuals seeking technological immortality. The analysis unfolds in four parts. First, it examines how biopolitics and thanatopolitics operate within the Convergence, investigating their significance through new materialist theory. Second, drawing on Jane Bennett’s new vitalism, it explores the significance and problematics of Artis’ (post)-preservation dream, particularly focusing on the interaction between her processed body and surrounding matter. Third, through Graham Harman’s object-oriented ontology and aesthetics, it analyzes the novel’s apocalyptic imageries, including its strategic use of mannequins and other symbolic objects. Finally, employing Karen Barad’s agential realism, it investigates the concepts of entanglement of matter and humanity and intra-action to illuminate new perspectives on ordinary life and materialist existence.

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