Exploring ‘Bad Nature’ by Ariel Courage

A Unique Bucket List

Ariel Courage’s first novel, Bad Nature, presents a gripping narrative centered around Hester, who is faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis at the age of 40. Instead of the expected emotional turmoil leading to introspection and self-improvement, Hester opts for an unconventional path: she quits her corporate job and embarks on a cross-country journey with the intent to murder her estranged father. This act, stemming from a childhood trauma, reflects her unresolved issues and serves as the only item on her bucket list.

Subverting Expectations

Courage’s portrayal of Hester stands in stark contrast to typical narratives featuring female protagonists, particularly those who are navigating personal crises. Rather than showcasing a character seeking emotional rehabilitation, Hester embodies a more ruthless, self-aware lawyer operating in the high-stress environment of corporate America. Her job, which involves negotiating settlements related to environmental violations, lays the groundwork for her conflicting values.

A Profound Social Critique

As Hester travels westward with an unexpected hitchhiker named John—a radical environmentalist—she is compelled to confront her own moral shortcomings. John, who engages in eco-activism, serving as a foil to Hester’s materialistic lifestyle, challenges her views on consumerism and its societal implications. Their interactions illuminate the ethical repercussions of personal and corporate decisions, particularly in relation to environmental health and individual responsibility.

The Complexity of Loneliness

Throughout her journey, Hester reflects on her isolated existence, revealing her deep-seated loneliness beneath the surface of her formidable exterior. Her abandonment of meaningful relationships, coupled with her penchant for superficial connections, serves as a defense mechanism forged from past trauma, particularly her volatile experiences with her father. Courage effectively weaves Hester’s backstory into the narrative, providing clarity to her motivations and actions.

A Call for Connection

Through Hester’s escapades, Bad Nature not only delves into personal growth but also critiques the American ethos of individualism. The novel suggests that the quest for wealth and material success ultimately leads to isolation and moral decay. As Hester grapples with her identity and the legacy of her upbringing, the narrative contrasts the joy of meaningful relationships with the hollowness of capitalist pursuits.

Conclusion

Bad Nature emerges as both a dark comedy and a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, challenging readers to reconsider the consequences of their actions and the societal structures that shape them. As Hester navigates her complex motivations and relationships, Courage delivers a poignant message about the dangers of selfishness and the fundamental human need for connection.