《Cadáver exquisito》摘要

"Cadáver exquisito" by Agustina Bazterrica presents a chilling dystopian narrative that explores themes of societal morality and the human condition through a harrowing lens. Set in a near-future Argentina, the novel imagines a world where the government has mandated the consumption of human flesh as a response to a catastrophic crisis. This systemic shift leads to the institutionalization of human cadavers as a regular food source, forcing society to grapple with the ethics of cannibalism and the commodification of life. The story is primarily centered on the protagonist, an ordinary woman named Able, living in this grim new reality. Through her eyes, readers navigate a society that has normalized the brutal practices of harvesting and consuming human bodies, turning cannibalism into a structured industry. This setting propels a significant portion of the narrative, as Bazterrica methodically unveils the psychological and emotional ramifications of such a world on both individuals and communities. Each chapter delves into different aspects of this morbid new norm, including governmental propaganda, the desensitization of citizens, and personal stories that reflect the broader societal implications. The narrative is disquieting, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable questions about ethics, survival, and what it means to be human. The title itself, "Cadáver exquisito," which translates to "Exquisite Corpse," alludes to a Surrealist game that creates a montage of disparate voices and perspectives—a fitting metaphor for the fragmented reality of Bazterrica's world, underscoring the grotesque normalcy of its central practice. Through stark prose and thought-provoking scenarios, Bazterrica crafts a poignant critique of dehumanization in the name of survival.