Waiting for the imminent end of the world is a well-navigated topic in SF – from absolute classic “On the Beach” (Shute) to Wilson’s amazing “Spin”. Reading The Last Policemen frequently brought to mind both novels – the narrative thread of searching for meaning in the face of annihilation, obviously, but with Spin, also in terms of main characters and their motivations.
I’m not saying The Last Policeman is unoriginal or repetitive – investigating a murder mystery on the brink of apocalypse is a fresh idea, and could appeal to both to detective story and SF fans. There are very good elements in Winter’s book: an excellent cast of small, “could be me or my neighbour” characters, each trying to face the end of the world in their own way, often succeeding with surprising dignity. The strength of the novel is the description of small everyday details, highlighting very big issues that we would realistically encounter in such a horror situation. Winters explores the sinking world in depth, staying away from superficial apocalyptic scenes rehashed in far too many books and movies. From labour shortages caused by employees going on their “bucket list“ adventures to vegetable oil engines, from “mercy buses” touring with believers performing their last good deeds to the disappearance of coffee beans and fast-speed internet, the world in The Last Policeman is meticulously described and exudes a sense of realism.
Another forte is the protagonist, Henry Police, a truly decent and likeable character, whose sense of duty keeps him straight in any turbulent situation. He’s so faultless he should be boring, but there is some edge to his voice, the possibility of losing the thin thread of sanity in spite of all that inner strength, that keeps him interesting throughout the novel.
All this makes The Last Policeman good reading, and I’m into the second book of the trilogy, proving that the plot has enough potential for more than one book. And still – if you haven’t read either Spin or The Last Policeman yet and plan reading both, rather start with Winters’ trilogy, and leave Spin for second dish. You will enjoy your meal better that way.
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