Interventions 2020

In Interventions 2020, Michel Houellebecq explores contemporary issues through his unique lens, addressing existential concerns and societal critiques.

The death of God in the West marked the beginning of a metaphysical soap opera that persists to this day. Christianity’s masterstroke combined a strong belief in the individual with the promise of eternal participation in the Absolute. However, when this dream faded, various attempts emerged to provide individuals with a minimum of being. The most recent of these attempts is advertising, which seeks to ignite desire and transform individuals into passive followers, bound to the whims of consumerism. Unfortunately, like previous efforts, this superficial engagement with the world fails, leading to an increase in unhappiness and depression.

A transformative change is possible, however, by stepping back from the relentless flow of information and advertising. Taking time to unplug from distractions, such as television and smartphones, and adopting a more aesthetic approach to life can help restore a sense of peace. Just a moment of stillness can create a space for reflection and self-awareness, allowing individuals to reconnect with their essence.

These themes are central to Interventions 2020, a collection of Michel Houellebecq’s texts and interviews spanning three decades. In this work, he articulates his perspectives on a range of subjects, including politics, religion, literature, and more controversial topics like suicide and euthanasia. This book is essential for those interested in the insights of one of the most widely read and provocative novelists of our time.