Overview of Mickey7
In an era marked by cultural division, political polarization, and widespread mental health issues, Mickey7 serves as a metaphorical lens through which we can examine and question our sense of worth and the direction of our society. Written by Edward Ashton, Mickey7 is a science fiction novel that explores the boundaries of human identity and survival while examining themes of immortality, the ethics of cloning, and what it means to be truly human.
Edward Ashton's dazzling debut
Mickey7 was ranked by many as the top science fiction story of 2022, a particularly notable feat considering this is Ashton’s debut novel. His style, breadth of knowledge, and use of symbolism are far superior to most writers’ first efforts (or second or third). And yes, his follow-up works are even better. Ashton’s writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, drawing readers into a world where identity is fluid, and life is both precious and disposable. He weaves a gripping tale while exploring profound questions that beg for introspection from the reader. He does this while making us laugh, like spit milk out of your nose laugh.
Who is Mickey 7?
Set in a future where human consciousness can be transferred to new bodies, Mickey 7 serves as an "expendable" worker, one who can perform life-threatening tasks with the promise of being reborn should the high-risk task kill him. As Mickey repeatedly dies (as the title reveals, he’s on his seventh death cycle) and is resurrected, he begins to grapple with the existential implications of his role. The true value of human worth becomes increasingly significant for Mickey (and the reader) when an unexpected death and rebirth occur.
The story is set against the harsh backdrop of Niflheim, an unforgiving planet that creates a multitude of challenges for its inhabitants, including an unsettling native species known as “creepers. It is in this environment that Ashton, through Mickey’s eyes, delves into questions about the value of life and the moral implications of a technology that allows for endless rebirth. On Niflheim, those willing to face the consequences of death are granted a sort of immortality. But is immortality truly as great as it seems?
Mickey7's supporting cast
Mickey is surrounded by fellow colonists and the mysterious creatures native to Niflheim, who add depth to the narrative and highlight humanity’s constant search for connection and understanding—even in the most alien of worlds. The interplay between these characters and Mickey provides plenty of moments of humor, tension, and reflection.
Mickey7 symbolisms
An exploration of existential themes
Authors who use symbolism effectively belong to a special group, and Edward Ashton seems to have written himself into that elite circle. I found a variety of symbolisms in his writing that reminded me of those found in the works of the late, great Ray Bradbury. As an author, I can attest that this is not an easy task, especially when the symbols explore modern existential themes that resonate with all of us.
The worth of people
Through Mickey, Ashton explores the worth of people or, more accurately, the values of human life in a society driven by technological advancement such as AI. What is the value of human life when it can be easily replaced or replicated? Is our value defined by what we can do, who we know, or simply because we are the sole owner of a unique consciousness?
Life cycles
The repeated deaths and rebirths of Mickey highlight the themes of immortality and possibly even the cyclical nature of life. If we can live indefinitely through technology, does this enhance or diminish the essence of being human? Are nothing more than a summation of our memories?
Understanding one's self
Mickey’s consciousness can be transferred to a new body whenever he dies, mirroring our modern-day evolution of fluid identity. What truly defines a person: their physical form, their memories, or a combination of both?
Isolation and adversity
The harsh and unforgiving landscape of the planet Niflheim symbolizes the isolation and adversity that are so common in our world today. Can mankind carve out an existence in any environment, no matter how inhospitable? If we are not alone in this universe, will our value diminish if we discover something greater than ourselves?
Other symbolisms in Mickey 17
Ashton’s use of symbolism is wide and varied. The native inhabitants of Niflheim symbolize the unknown, the “other,” while the cycles of death that Mickey experiences tout visages of personal growth, change, and each individual’s quest for meaning in a world that cares little about each other. Ashton expertly weaves these symbols into the fabric of Mickey 7, inviting us to reflect on complex issues like identity, technology, and the human condition. Then, he ties it all together with a neat red bow, creating a wonderfully enjoyable experience for the reader.
Mickey 17 - the movie
Mickey 7 or Mickey 17?
It was no surprise to hear that Mickey 7 was being produced as a major motion picture. Weaving such a tale into an interesting visual representation is not an easy task, though. Still, three-time Academy Award winner Bong Joon Ho chose to tackle the task in Mickey 17. Yes, there’s an extra digit in there. As it turns out, the number seven didn’t fit the bill for Bong, so he changed it to Mickey 17, forcing poor Mickey through ten more deaths.
Mickey 17 stars Robert Pattinson (Mickey 7 or Mickey 17), Steven Yeun (Minari), Naomi Ackie (I Wanna Dance With Somebody), Toni Collette (Hereditary), and Mark Ruffalo (the Hulk).
Mickey7 on Amazon
The official synopsis reads:
Official Synopsis
Dying isn’t any fun…but at least it’s a living.
Mickey Barnes is an Expendable: a disposable employee on a human expedition sent to colonize the ice world Niflheim. Whenever there’s a mission that’s too dangerous―even suicidal―the crew turns to Mickey. After one iteration dies, a new body is regenerated with most of his memories intact. After six deaths, Mickey7 understands the terms of his deal…and why it was the only colonial position unfilled when he took it.
On a routine scouting mission, Mickey7 goes missing and is presumed dead. By the time he returns to the colony base, surprisingly helped back by native life, his fate has been sealed. There’s a new clone, Mickey8, reporting for Expendable duties, and there can only be one Expendable. If Mickey7 reports his survival to Command, one of them is going into the recycler. If he doesn’t and they’re caught, they both are.
Meanwhile, life on Niflheim is getting worse. The atmosphere is unsuitable for humans, food is in short supply, and terraforming is going poorly. The native species are growing curious about their new neighbors, and that curiosity has Commander Marshall very afraid. Ultimately, the survival of both lifeforms will come down to Mickey7.
That is, if he can just keep from dying for good.