Generation X: technology, identity and apocalypse in three novels by Douglas Coupland.

Abstract

This paper takes as its base premise the idea that Douglas Coupland has both shaped generation X thought fundamentally while at the same time is continuously shaped by generation X cultural production. Through a postmodern lens, the paper goes on to look at the ways in which notions of identity, and apocalypse have come to play a central role in the thinking of generation X and then looks at the ways in which these themes and generation X as a whole have been affected by technology.

The paper looks at three of Coupland’s novels: Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture; Microserfs and Girlfriend in a Coma.