Ascent to Omai

Wilson Harris' Ascent to Omai explores one man's search for a new consciousness, an awareness of self and the way in which he relates to his world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 29 March 2018
Publisher: Peepal Tree Press Ltd

In the captivating world of "Ascent to Omai," time and space exhibit an extraordinary elasticity, blurring the boundaries between recent events and distant geological eras. The lines between individuals, places, and memories become fluid and permeable, creating a tapestry of interconnectedness. Victor, driven by a quest to reconnect with his father, Adam, a former revolutionary worker who was unjustly imprisoned for burning down the factory he worked in, embarks on a journey that takes him to the remote Cuyuni-Mazaruni district of Guyana.

Here, the once pristine landscapes have been transformed into the site of one of the world's largest open-cast goldmines, a testament to human ambition and environmental degradation. Prophetically, the novel weaves a profound exploration of the clash between material/technological advancements and primordial/spiritual forces, drawing upon the rich tapestry of Guyanese imagination.

As Victor climbs, he revisits his past relationship with his father and re-enacts his father's trial, which becomes an introspective journey of self-discovery. The novel echoes the iconic "Nighttown" episode of "Ulysses" in its exploration of the boundaries of consciousness and the search for spiritual grace. While Victor's offenses are not sexual in nature, they represent blockages in his thinking, preventing him from fully embracing the openness of the world around him.

Victor's quest is for spiritual compensation, for the love that has been lost and the glimmerings of a true understanding of the universe he inhabits. However, Harris, the author, cautions against imposing a false coherence upon the material world, inviting the reader to embark on Victor's provisional ascent to consciousness with an open mind.

Through his struggles, Victor learns to navigate the complexities of the human condition, embracing the impermanence of existence and the constant flux of life. "Ascent to Omai" is a testament to the power of storytelling, offering a profound exploration of the human experience and the search for meaning in a world that is both beautiful and complex.

Weight: 174g
Dimension: 137 x 206 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781845233549
Edition number: None ed.