eMusic Book Club: and…we’re moving on!

It’s only December 20th, but it’s not too early to jumpstart one of my New Year’s resolutions: It’s time to put the Scanner Darkly book club discussion to bed. Let it die with dignity, no teary farewells or long goodbyes.

Before we wrap things up, I have a final burning question for you: In thinking about A Scanner Darkly as a whole, the thing that most stood out for me—beyond the hit-you-over-the-head message that drugs are bad—is the larger question of identity that transcends the abuse of mind-altering substances. Even if Substance D wasn’t messing with their brains the characters of Scanner would seemingly still be of two minds, if not literally then certainly figuratively. As Philip K. Dick sums up in his author’s note, Bob and his friends made a conscious choice to consume the most highly addictive drug, like, ever. What sort of massive identity crisis preceded this decision? How did Bob/Fred wake up one morning and realize that he wasn’t cut out for “straight” suburban life; that living as a “doper” would somehow be truer to his real self?

That’s officially my last Scanner post. But please, if there’s anything I’ve missed, any topic that you think might require further examination, feel free to keep the convo going. Meanwhile I’m gonna start working on a new pick for the New Year which I’ll announce in January, and I’ll be sure to give you plenty of advance warning before starting up discussion. For next time we’ll be ditching the message boards and making 17dots the new and improved book club home. I’m thinking of going true crime on ya—either In Cold Blood or The Devil in the White City. Any further thoughts? Please let me know!