Unsong
Publisher: Self published
Published: 2017
Language: eng
Subjects: speculative fiction; alternate history; Jewish mysticism; Kabbalah; religion and philosophy; linguistics; language and magic; web serial; is:fiction; has:philosophical-themes; has:humor; has:alternate-history
Description: Unsong is a serialized web novel by Scott Alexander that blends alternate history, Jewish mysticism, Kabbalah, and speculative fiction. The story takes place in an alternate version of 2017 where the metaphysical structure of the universe has become literal and visible following a catastrophic event called the Metaphysical Plague. In this reality, the divine Names of God possess tangible power, enabling individuals to perform reality-altering acts through their discovery and use. The novel follows protagonist Aaron Smith-Teller, a disgruntled kabbalistic coder working for a magical startup in a dystopian America controlled by various religious and corporate factions.

About the Book:
The narrative combines deep theological and philosophical concepts with humor, wordplay, and cultural references. Unsong is structured into chapters released as blog posts between 2016 and 2017, making it both a web serial and a completed novel-length work. The story weaves together elements of Jewish esotericism, linguistics, alternate geopolitical history, and meta-commentary on religion and science.

Key Themes:
- Jewish mysticism and Kabbalah
- Alternate history and geopolitics
- Power of language and divine Names
- Philosophical and ethical questions about knowledge and power
- Satirical takes on religion, society, and pop culture

Audience:
Unsong appeals to readers interested in speculative fiction, theology, linguistics, philosophy, and fans of unconventional narrative structures. It is especially suited for readers familiar with Jewish mystical traditions or those intrigued by alternate history scenarios.

Critical Reception:
Unsong has received praise from online communities for its intellectual depth, originality, and blending of humor with complex metaphysical themes. It has developed a cult following among readers of speculative web fiction and philosophy-focused science fiction.