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Processed Cheese, a novel by Stephen Wright, is a satirical and surreal commentary on American society and culture. The novel follows a motley crew of characters as they navigate through various absurd situations that are a reflection of the absurdity of contemporary America.The plot of the novel is disjointed and nonlinear, with scenes jumping back and forth in time and space. The central character is a former astronaut named John Ray, who is now a television producer working on a reality show called "The Invisible Hand." The show is a commentary on the state of the economy and features contestants who compete for the chance to win a job.Wright uses the reality show as a vehicle to critique the dehumanization of American society, where people are reduced to mere commodities and the value of their lives is determined by their economic worth. The contestants on the show are subjected to humiliating challenges, and their personal lives are exposed to the public in a voyeuristic manner. The show is a reflection of the larger trend in American society, where people are increasingly commodified and objectified.In addition to John Ray, the novel features a range of other characters, including a professional wrestler, a Native American casino worker, a Hollywood producer, and a disgruntled former employee of a fast food chain. These characters are all struggling to find their place in an America that has lost its sense of identity and purpose. Wright uses their stories to explore issues such as racism, class inequality, and the erosion of the American dream.One of the strengths of the novel is Wright's use of language. His writing is lyrical and poetic, with a surrealist edge that adds to the dreamlike quality of the narrative. He uses humor and irony to highlight the absurdity of contemporary American society, and his characters often speak in a staccato, rapid-fire manner that mirrors the frenetic pace of modern life.At the same time, the novel is not without its flaws. The disjointed and nonlinear nature of the plot can be disorienting, and some readers may find it difficult to follow the various subplots and characters. Additionally, the novel's satirical tone can sometimes feel heavy-handed, and some of the jokes may fall flat.Overall, Processed Cheese is a thought-provoking and challenging novel that offers a sharp critique of contemporary American society. It is not an easy read, but for those willing to engage with its surreal and satirical world, it offers a unique and rewarding experience.