Somewhat recently, I was asked to consider what some of my
all-time top novels would be. This is always a difficult proposal as are you
looking for entertaining, for thoughtful, for a specific genre? After some
deliberation, I went with one of my all-time favorite science fiction novels,
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin.
It is the story of a human emissary on a lone mission to include
the world of Gethen, a frozen, winter world into the growing galactic
civilization. The Envoy, Genry Ai, must contend with distrust, fractious
politics, and entrenched religions. But the denizens of Gethen are also
incredibly odd in their familiarity. They are asexual, and can and do choose
their gender. It is conceivable that one Gethenians could have both sired and
given birth to children. Genry must separate his gender identity assumptions
from his dealings with the Gethenians.
The story also follows Estraven, a Gethenian and prime minister to
the Kingdom of Karhide. Estraven gives us the best look into the culture of
Gethen through a slowly, but wonderfully revealed backstory. Also, he provides
a fascinating look into Le Guin’s conception of a society where gender identity
is equal parts fluid and non-existent
On the surface, the
book appears to be a thought experiment regarding gender assumptions. In fact,
many reviews and analysis of the work focus on this. Yet, as with any good
novel, there is so much more to the tale. Le Guin puts forth some fascinating
and thought provoking ideas about philosophy, religion, relationships, and much
more. The many, compelling layers of this book make it an excellent read and
are one for the reasons I occasionally go back to Left Hand of Darkness and
reread chapters. In all, I highly recommend giving this book a read.
