He Opened His Eyes and It Was Dark - Paperback

by R. R. Griffin (Author)

He Opened His Eyes and It Was Dark is a work of dystopian literary-fiction set in an unnamed city in the near future. While average people march blindly forward as the city (both figuratively and literally) crumbles around them, a conscientious and brooding college student at a for-profit middle-management college (Richard) navigates the frustrating and depressing world around him, trying to make sense of it. A series of chance encounters changes his whole attitude and outlook-and sets him on a dynamic course to push back against the system.

The novel delivers a dire warning about what the world might look like if apathy and greed continue to dominate, while still allowing for the beautiful and bittersweet nature of everyday things like friendship and romance to capture the reader's attention. The writing is sharp and unflinching as it doles out cynical social commentary with bleak poeticism. Instead of painting heroes in bold strokes, it gives us real people who are messy and conflicted...yet still capable of incredible things. Balancing despair with moments of kindness and fleeting hope, the book leaves you feeling both unsettled and inspired.