Gary Shteyngart, known for his satirical works like “Super Sad True Love Story” and his memoir “Little Failure,” fearlessly tackles various topics such as immigrants in America, the former Soviet Union, technology, and the art of writing.
In his latest novel, “Our Country Friends,” Shteyngart explores these themes in a contemporary setting. The story follows Sasha Senderovsky as he escapes pandemic-ridden New York City with his family to their home in the Hudson Valley. The diverse group of characters at the Senderovsky bungalow colony includes Karen, the creator of a dating app called “Tröö Feelings”; Vinod, a former writer and adjunct professor; Ed, a lively individual; Dee, an essayist and social media personality; and a mysterious figure known as “The Actor.” Amidst romantic entanglements, the characters also grapple with artistic pursuits and the desire to control their own narratives within their enclosed community.
While the premise of the novel may echo themes from works like Giovanni Boccaccio’s “Decameron,” Shteyngart infuses the story with absurdity, questioning the privilege of some to escape chaos while others suffer. The characters’ attempts to engage in the arts amidst a world in crisis reflect the delicate balance of seeking solace and confronting the harsh realities outside their secluded bubble.
Shteyngart’s self-aware satire shines through the character of Alexander Borisovich Senderovsky, who bears similarities to the author himself. The novel delves into the challenges of creating art amid a global pandemic, showcasing the characters’ struggles with failed artistic endeavors and the limitations of traditional storytelling in a modern, socially mediated world.
Through “Our Country Friends,” Shteyngart poses thought-provoking questions about the role of art in a society overwhelmed by self-reflection through platforms like social media. The novel suggests that while art may not be obsolete, its evolution in response to current events may shape our understanding of ourselves and our world.
