Environmental Concerns and the Coast in Contemporary Literature
The coast has always held a special place in literature, often symbolizing a peaceful escape or a source of inspiration for writers and poets. However, in recent years, contemporary literature has taken a different approach to the coast, focusing more on the environmental concerns that threaten this natural beauty. Through their works, contemporary writers have raised awareness of these pressing issues, highlighting the detrimental effects of human activities on the delicate coastal ecosystem.
One of the main environmental concerns facing the coast today is climate change. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and ocean acidification are just a few of the consequences of this global issue. In literature, this theme is echoed in works such as Barbara Kingsolver’s “Flight Behavior”, where the protagonist’s small-town community is faced with the sudden migration of monarch butterflies due to changing weather patterns. Through her vivid descriptions, Kingsolver captures the devastating impact of climate change on the natural world and the people who depend on it.
Pollution is another pressing issue that threatens the coast and its inhabitants. Plastic waste, chemical spills, and oil leaks are all too common in our oceans, causing irreparable damage to marine life and the delicate balance of the coastal environment. In her novel “The Seas” Sarah Elizabeth Schantz explores the devastating effects of a dangerous oil spill on the beaches and inhabitants of a small town. Through the eyes of her teenage protagonist, Schantz exposes the harsh reality of human negligence and its consequences for the coast.
Contemporary literature has also shed light on the destructive practices of overfishing and industrial fishing. In his Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Overstory”, Richard Powers weaves together the stories of several characters, including a college student who becomes a sea captain, to explore the impact of commercial fishing on ocean ecosystems. Through his characters, Powers highlights the devastating consequences of overfishing and the urgent need for sustainable practices to save our oceans and coasts from collapse.
Aside from these pressing concerns, contemporary literature has also tackled the issue of plastic pollution. In “The Mermaid’s Voice Returns in This One”, Amanda Lovelace uses poetry to express the devastating effects of plastic waste on the ocean, its creatures, and ultimately, on ourselves. Through her powerful words, Lovelace reminds us that our actions have a direct impact on the environment and that it is our responsibility to take care of our coastlines.
One practical example of how literature can drive change is the success of Naomi Klein’s book, “This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate”. Through her comprehensive exploration of the relationship between capitalism and climate change, Klein has sparked important conversations and initiated action towards changing harmful policies and practices. Her work serves as a stark reminder that our actions, as individuals and as a society, have a significant impact on the environment and that we must take responsibility for preserving our coastlines for future generations.
In conclusion, contemporary literature has played a vital role in raising awareness about the environmental concerns facing our coasts. Through their words and stories, writers have shed light on the devastating impact of climate change, pollution, overfishing, and plastic waste. They have encouraged us to take a closer look at our actions and the consequences they have on the delicate coastal ecosystem. Practical examples of the impact of literature on environmental issues serve as a reminder that it is not too late to make a change. Literature has the power to spark conversations and drive change, and it is our responsibility to listen and take action before it is too late.