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The Machine Stops

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The Machine Stops by E.M. Forster is about a dystopian society in which human lives are controlled by the Machine. Every need and desire is available to the people of the Machine literally at the push of a button. However, those that are unsatisfied with this life are considered heretics and face exile. The Machine Stops criticizes anti-existentialist views as they eventually lead to the downfall of humanity. Kuno is the existentialist protagonist of the story whose aberrant behavior sets him apart from the rest of society. Unlike the other inhabitants of the Machine, In a world where “Men seldom moved their bodies” (5) and babies who show athletic potential are killed, Kuno intentionally develops muscle by walking and by lifting his pillow.

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