Recently watched and loved the film Threads (1984) and it got me into a post-apocalypse kick. Instead of stories set completely in the post-apocalypse, I'm more looking for stories that show the lead-up to and unraveling of the world as the apocalypse is unfolding.
I'm currently reading On the Beach by Nevil Shute, which is about Australians spending their last days in Melbourne as the nuclear fallout from a world-ending war in the Northern Hemisphere drifts towards them to kill them from radiation sickness. It's a little too passive for what I'm looking for, but the aura of existential dread somewhat scratches that itch.
A good example of this would be the middle chapters of Stephen King's The Stand, which has a few great chapters dedicated to the world falling apart and the numerous unfortunate accidents that fall upon the survivors in the immediate aftermath.
Any recommendations for these types of vibes? It doesn't have to be nuclear – zombie, disease, any kind of apocalypse story with some focus around the world falling apart will do.
P.S., I'd happily take film recommendations too, but I know what sub I'm posting in, lol.
by StanktheGreat
3 Comments
Dies the Fire by S M Stirling
Seveneves by Neil Stephenson. The first half of the book is about the lead-up to an anticipated apocalyptic event.
A Canticle for Leibowitz