Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead

Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead is a thought-provoking novel by Olga Tokarczuk, set in a remote Polish village where the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur. The story is narrated by Janina Duszejko, a reclusive woman in her sixties who has a deep connection with nature and a peculiar affinity for the poetry of William Blake.

The Plot

When Janina's two beloved dogs go missing, she becomes embroiled in a series of mysterious murders that plague her community, particularly targeting local hunters. As the investigation unfolds, Janina, with her unconventional beliefs and a fierce commitment to animal rights, challenges the ingrained norms of the village. Her unique perspective forces both the characters and readers to confront critical issues surrounding ethics, justice, and the treatment of the marginalised.

Themes

• Animal Rights: The novel raises poignant questions about the treatment of animals and their place within human society.
• Isolation: Janina's solitude reflects broader themes of alienation and societal rejection.
• Morality: The moral complexities of justice and revenge are examined through Janina's eyes.

Tokarczuk's lyrical writing style interweaves elements of dark humour and philosophical inquiry, making this novel not only a compelling mystery but also a profound exploration of the human condition. Readers who appreciate works such as The Vegetarian by Han Kang or The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera may find themselves equally captivated by Janina's journey.