The Obelisk Gate by N K Jemisin

Short Audio Book Summary

Description

The Obelisk Gate by N.K. Jemisin is the second book in The Broken Earth trilogy, following The Fifth Season. The series is set in a world ravaged by constant seismic activity, where certain individuals called orogenes have the ability to control seismic forces. These orogenes are often feared and oppressed by society due to their power, which can be destructive if uncontrolled. The Obelisk Gate builds on the world and themes introduced in the first book, delving deeper into the consequences of the Fifth Season and the ongoing struggle for survival. The novel continues the story of Essun, the protagonist from The Fifth Season, who is a powerful orogene. At the beginning of the book, Essun is still grieving the loss of her family, specifically her daughter, and struggling with her role as an orogene in a world that sees her as dangerous. She joins forces with Alabaster, another orogene, and they seek to unlock the mysteries surrounding the catastrophic seismic events that have torn the world apart. One of the main themes of The Obelisk Gate is the exploration of power—both the personal power of the orogenes and the societal structures that control and exploit that power. The book delves into how fear of the unknown and the desire for control lead to oppression and suffering, particularly for marginalized groups like orogenes. Throughout the story, the characters grapple with the morality of using their powers and the consequences of that power in a world on the brink of collapse. The novel also introduces the Obelisk Gate, a mysterious and ancient structure that holds the key to understanding the world’s ongoing seismic crises. The gate is tied to the origins of orogeny and the history of the earth itself. As the story unfolds, Essun must confront the moral dilemmas surrounding the use of the gate and its potential to either save or destroy what remains of the world. The narrative structure of The Obelisk Gate continues to be complex, with multiple viewpoints and timelines that build upon the mystery and world-building of the first book. Through a combination of flashbacks and current events, the story explores the histories of the characters, the development of the orogeny system, and the brutal power structures in place that perpetuate inequality. Essun’s emotional journey also takes center stage in The Obelisk Gate, as she begins to embrace her identity as an orogene while dealing with the personal losses and trauma she has experienced. The relationships she forms with other characters, especially Damaya and Syenite, two orogenes from different points in time, show how the past and present intertwine, and how individuals must come to terms with their powers in order to survive. The book’s conclusion leaves readers with a sense of urgency, as the world teeters on the edge of destruction and the fate of the characters remains uncertain. The Obelisk Gate is a compelling, thought-provoking continuation of The Broken Earth series, expanding on the complex themes of oppression, survival, and the consequences of unchecked power. N.K. Jemisin’s writing continues to be rich and layered, with a deep focus on world-building, character development, and social commentary. The Obelisk Gate is an excellent middle installment in the trilogy, setting the stage for the dramatic conclusion in The Stone Sky. It's a powerful exploration of humanity, survival, and what it means to have the power to shape the world.