Book Review

Island by Aldous Huxley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Island, a 1962 utopic novel by Aldous Huxley, introduces us to Pala, a society that stands out for its adherence to Buddhist precepts. Here, the emphasis on preventive medicine and self-knowledge takes precedence over material possessions and competition. The government operates devoid of the influence of greed, envy, power, and dominance. In Pala, science is not just a tool but a path to spiritual enlightenment, a unique aspect of this society.

Island narrates the profound transformation of Will Farnaby during his stay on the secluded island of Pala. As he heals from his injuries, Will encounters a world starkly contrasting to his native England and Western civilization. His time on the isle witnesses a significant change in him, from a reluctant, cynical Westerner to a man deeply influenced by the Palanese alternative to the exploitative capitalism of the West. Farnaby, however, harbors a secret throughout his visit: the impending threat of Western progress over the island.

Furthermore, Murugan, the young monarch poised to assume power at 18, harbors plans that could potentially shatter the utopian dream of Pala's forbearers. His intention to introduce a more Western style of governance and economic system poses a significant and alarming threat to Pala's harmony.

Unlike Huxley's previous works, this book is more of a posthumous essay than a novel, serving as his final literary legacy. It diverges from his usual exploration of dystopian societies, such as in Brave New World. Instead, it delves into the intricacies of an ideal society, often leaving the plot in the background, making the book a bit dense and dull. 

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