Patoralia

Pastoralia by George Saunders is a darkly comic and surreal collection of stories that explores the absurdities of modern life. With biting wit and profound empathy, Saunders introduces characters navigating bizarre workplaces, dysfunctional relationships, and societal pressures in a world that often feels uncomfortably familiar. The title story, set in a strange living history theme park, reflects on the compromises people make to survive. Throughout the collection, Saunders examines themes of disconnection, ambition, and humanity’s persistent yearning for meaning. Pastoralia is a sharp, inventive, and deeply affecting work from one of contemporary fiction’s most distinctive voices.