"Want" By Cindy Pon
0Cindy Pon's short story "Want" is a thought-provoking exploration of the power dynamics between the haves and have-nots in a dystopian future. Set in a world where air and water are scarce commodities controlled by a wealthy elite, the story follows the journey of a young girl named Jason Zhou as he navigates the dangerous world of corporate espionage in an attempt to bring down the corrupt system and create a more just society.
One of the most striking aspects of the story is its vivid world-building. Pon paints a picture of a bleak and polluted city where the wealthy live in luxury high-rises while the poor are forced to scavenge for resources on the polluted streets below. The descriptions of the smog-filled air and contaminated water serve as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of environmental degradation, and help to create a sense of urgency around Zhou's mission.
At its core, "Want" is a story about power and privilege. The wealthy upper class holds a monopoly on the resources necessary for survival, and they are willing to use any means necessary to maintain their stranglehold on the populace. This is exemplified by the character of Jin Corp CEO Mr. Chen, who is portrayed as a cold and ruthless businessman with no regard for the lives of those around him. In contrast, Zhou and his band of revolutionaries are driven by a deep sense of empathy and compassion for their fellow citizens, even as they are forced to resort to morally ambiguous tactics in order to achieve their goals.
One of the most interesting aspects of the story is the way it explores the psychological toll of living in a society that is fundamentally unjust. Zhou and his friends are acutely aware of the suffering and deprivation around them, and they are driven by a desire to make a difference. However, as they delve deeper into the world of corporate espionage and sabotage, they begin to question whether the ends justify the means. This is exemplified by the character of Daiyu, who is initially presented as a loyal member of the group but eventually becomes disillusioned with their tactics and begins to question whether they are really making a difference. This moral ambiguity adds depth and complexity to the story, and forces the reader to grapple with difficult questions about the nature of justice and the use of violence as a means of achieving social change.
Another compelling aspect of "Want" is the character development of Jason Zhou. At the beginning of the story, he is presented as a somewhat naive and idealistic young man who is driven by a desire to make a difference in the world. However, as he becomes more deeply involved in the revolution, he is forced to confront the harsh realities of the society in which he lives. This is exemplified by his growing relationship with Daiyu, who serves as a kind of moral compass for him throughout the story. As Zhou becomes more deeply involved in the revolution, he begins to question his own motives and to grapple with the ethical dilemmas inherent in the fight for justice.
Overall, "Want" is a powerful and thought-provoking work of dystopian fiction that raises important questions about power, privilege, and social justice. Pon's vivid world-building, complex characters, and exploration of moral ambiguity make for a compelling and deeply rewarding read. Ultimately, the story serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and a willingness to fight for what is right, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.