Zerstor 500

The Zerstor 500 symbolizes the regression of cultural values and accompanying prioritizing of capitalist success over art. Dubbed the Thing by Guylain, it is an enormous paper pulping machine that turns unwanted books into a reusable slurry. Its mere presence disturbs Guylain; “even after all these years, at the sight of the high, grubby, peeling perimeter wall, his throat was assailed by nausea. On the other side crouched the Thing, well hidden from view. The Thing was waiting for him” (10). It has been well-equipped for its task, and Guylain shudders at the thought of its “500 hammers the size of men’s fist” and “600 stainless-steel knives” (14). Guylain constantly personifies the Zerstor 500. “It loved meat, he was certain of it, loved those screeching, wriggling little bodies that it crunched like a mere snack when it managed to nab one” (24). However, his real fury is directed at the system which...