The Employees: A Workplace Novel of the 22nd Century
“The Employees: A Workplace Novel of the 22nd Century” by Olga Ravn is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that delves into the essence of humanity and the nature of work. Set aboard the Six-Thousand Ship, the story unfolds in the near-distant future, where the crew is composed of both humans and humanoids—those born and those created, those who will die and those who will not.
The narrative is structured as a series of witness statements to a bureaucratic committee, which are investigating the effects of mysterious objects brought on board from the planet New Discovery. These objects stir deep emotions and attachments among the crew, leading to a profound introspection about their existence and purpose.
Ravn’s novel is a satirical critique of corporate language and the capitalist workplace, wrapped in the enigma of a space opera. It questions the definition of being human, contrasting the mundane tasks of daily work with existential longing and memories of Earth.
The book, shortlisted for the International Booker Prize, is a compact yet powerful exploration of identity, belonging and the human condition. It challenges readers to consider what it means to be truly alive and the role work plays in our lives, all while navigating through a landscape of ontological uncertainty and corporate jargon. The Employees is as much a commentary on modern life as it is a journey into the unknown, making it a compelling read for those who seek depth and reflection in their science fiction.