At the end it gets asked at a different level, when Maggie considers her personal future. I don't know the answer to that larger question. Maybe stupidity and our inflated sense of privilege will prevail. Maybe humans can't change. But cynicism is not an intelligent option.
Life is too precious.
I see too much beauty in the actions of individuals struggling around me, too much of God in that struggle. Open to the public. Still no decision from the publisher. Interest in The Iron Bridge appears to be growing in the U.K., as readers spread the word. Many want to see the book made into a film.