Responsibility of Literature in planting Green Consciousness: Trees and Decarbonization in The Overstory by Richard Powers

Abstract

Abstract:

Trees play a significant role in literature as it does in the lives of humans. Trees co-exist with humans and there seems to be a natural connection between humans and trees. Humans introduce too much of carbon dioxide or methane which obliterates the balance of the ecosystem which in turn affects our lives. An ecosystem is called sustainable only when it is healthy, biodiverse and capable of sustaining itself. Global warming is a serious consequence of the destruction of the ecosystem which eventually intrudes every living thing on the planet. The new genre of climate fiction, abbreviated as ‘cli- fi’describes the effects of climate change that is perceptible and also confer possible options to alleviate those effects.  

The paper presents Richard Powers’ The Overtsory as a climate fiction which attempts to depict the problems of deforestation and ecological crisis. Powers portrays the beautiful relationship between trees and humans in the novel and provides an insight into the environmental issues of the present era.  Harmony between human and the natural world must be maintained for a perfect ecosystem as Frederick states, “The modern ecological consciousness has a feeling that the balance between human and the natural world must be maintained. A perfect ecology is one in which plants, animals, birds and human beings live in such harmony that none dominates or destroys the other” (147). This paper attempts to prove that literature has always been responsible in creating Green Consciousness in people. The paper critically analysis The Overstory and illustrates how Powers’ novel is a great step towards the global concern of ecological crisis. This study aligns with one of the indicators of Oman Vision 2040 creating awareness through literature and contributing for an effective, balanced and resilient ecosystem to protect the environment ensuring sustainability.