A review by savvylit
The Factory by Hiroko Oyamada
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.5
In The Factory, Hiroko Oyamada has created a deeply unsettling example of workplace horror. Featuring a nonlinear narrative and elements of magical realism, this novella builds a pervasive sense of dread and confusion. Ultimately, Oyamada has produced a capitalist critique that is both authentic and surreal.
Almost from their first days on the job, each character incrementally loses their agency until the factory becomes their whole life. While some may find this book boring - as it does include lengthy descriptions of workplace routines - I loved it. The depictions of rote work are what make this novella pack such a large punch in a small amount of space. The drudgery mirrors the true nature of factory work; it is repetitive, demeaning, and seemingly pointless.
Almost from their first days on the job, each character incrementally loses their agency until the factory becomes their whole life. While some may find this book boring - as it does include lengthy descriptions of workplace routines - I loved it. The depictions of rote work are what make this novella pack such a large punch in a small amount of space. The drudgery mirrors the true nature of factory work; it is repetitive, demeaning, and seemingly pointless.
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal death