Edward Bellamy’s transition from journalism to fiction writing is marked by the publication of Looking Backward in 1888. This novel propelled Bellamy to fame, captivating readers nationwide with its imaginative depiction of a world they were invited to envision.
The author’s portrayal of the concept of a utopia is challenging to believe, even in the twenty-first century. People still long for a world resembling his vision. However, Bellamy’s ideal society contradicts past and present realities. His novel showcases a rational approach to nurture a community of genuinely kind and generous individuals. By utilizing reason, society could establish a harmonious and compassionate world, making Bellamy’s vision achievable today. In his utopia, Bellamy rejects competition as the basis for an ideal society.
The story starts with a preface that offers an overview of the narrative. It introduces the concept that Bellamy is writing from the viewpoint of the twentieth century, where a rational perspective is adopted towards the world. Bellamy employs Julian West as a symbol of industrialization and presents his utopian concepts as remedies for the issues caused by industrialization. Dr. Leete represents the new society. In chapter one, Julian West recounts the tale and explains how society functioned in the late 1800s.
In Bellamy’s utopia, the residents were unable to comprehend the social structure of the past. This structure involved four classes: the wealthy, the impoverished, the educated, and the ignorant. Julian explains that during the 1800s, this was deemed as the sole feasible method of organizing society. Subsequent chapters illustrate Julian West’s voyage into the future, leading him to arrive in the 20th century.
Julian’s story describes his sleep of one hundred and thirteen years, awakening to find a doctor by his side who had cared for him and planned to wait until he woke up. Society’s transformation and the surprising kindness shown by Dr. Leete, a new character in the narrative, astonish Mr. West. Julian proceeds to discuss the significant progress that has taken place during his fifty-year slumber. It is at this moment that Bellamy begins to depict the utopian world he has imagined.
Julian is astonished to learn about the society where prosperity is equally shared and the value is placed on the common good rather than individual power. In the upcoming chapters, Dr. Leete and Julian have conversations and address any inquiries he may have. Bellamy compares Julian’s previous world to the utopia he has now entered, providing readers with an insight into what Bellamy is constructing in the story. Furthermore, Bellamy elaborates on the various aspects of this utopia.
Bellamy initially discusses the equal distribution of money within the state, followed by the equitable allocation of funds to the state. He further elaborates on the organization and governance of society and the state during the 19th century, highlighting men’s role in the workforce and their associated responsibilities. Bellamy’s gradual exposition enables readers to discern the disparities between the 19th and 20th centuries.
Bellamy progressively introduces the romance and connection between Julian and Mrs. Leete as the chapters unfold in this unimaginable world. Mrs. Leete empathizes with Julian, acknowledging his discomfort in unfamiliar surroundings, and offers to lend a listening ear for any inquiries or grievances he may have. Despite the joyful atmosphere of Bellamy’s new world, Julian still finds himself pondering the past and lamenting his losses.
