New York 2140

Definition

New York 2140 is a science fiction novel by Kim Stanley Robinson, set in a future where rising sea levels due to climate change have submerged much of New York City. The narrative explores themes of adaptation, resilience, and the impact of climate change on society, reflecting the broader issues of climate fiction and the Anthropocene.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In New York 2140, much of the city is submerged underwater, creating a new urban landscape where buildings serve as islands and people adapt to their aquatic surroundings.
2. The novel features multiple characters from different walks of life, highlighting how diverse populations respond to the challenges posed by climate change and rising waters.
3. Robinson incorporates real scientific concepts into the narrative, such as the effects of global warming on sea levels and urban infrastructure, to create a plausible future scenario.
4. The book critiques current socio-economic systems by showcasing how climate change exacerbates inequalities, affecting marginalized communities more severely than wealthier populations.
5. New York 2140 emphasizes the importance of community and cooperation in addressing climate issues, showcasing how collective action can lead to innovative solutions in a changing world.

Review Questions

• How does New York 2140 illustrate the concept of adaptation in response to climate change?
  • New York 2140 illustrates adaptation through its depiction of a submerged city where inhabitants have developed innovative ways to live in a changed environment. The characters navigate their daily lives amidst waterlogged streets and floating neighborhoods, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. This adaptation reflects the real-world need for communities to find creative solutions to cope with climate impacts.
• Discuss the role of socio-economic inequality in New York 2140 and how it relates to the impacts of climate change.
  • Socio-economic inequality plays a significant role in New York 2140 as the narrative reveals how different social classes experience the consequences of rising sea levels. Wealthier individuals can afford to adapt their living conditions and access resources for survival, while poorer communities face greater hardships. This disparity underscores the critique of current socio-economic structures and highlights the urgent need for equitable responses to climate challenges.
• Evaluate how Kim Stanley Robinson uses speculative fiction in New York 2140 to address contemporary environmental issues.
  • Kim Stanley Robinson employs speculative fiction in New York 2140 to create a vivid portrayal of a future shaped by environmental crises. By envisioning a world where climate change has drastically altered urban life, he draws attention to current environmental issues while encouraging readers to reflect on potential outcomes if humanity fails to act. This narrative approach allows for a deeper exploration of human resilience and social responsibility, prompting discussions about sustainable practices and collective action in today's context.

Related terms

Anthropocene: The current geological epoch characterized by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems, particularly through climate change.

Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi): A genre of literature that deals with climate change and its effects on the environment and human society, often exploring dystopian futures or utopian solutions.

Speculative Fiction: A broad literary genre that includes elements that are not grounded in reality, such as futuristic settings, imaginary worlds, and supernatural events, often used to examine social issues.