“Women are the real architects of society.”

“Zombie” is a short story written by Joyce Carol Oates that was first published in 1995 in her collection of short stories titled “The Collector of Hearts: New Tales of the Grotesque.” The story explores themes of identity, obsession, and the blurred line between reality and fantasy.

The narrative is presented in the form of a diary or journal, written by Quentin P., a middle-aged man who becomes fixated on a teenage girl named S. He becomes consumed by his obsession, stalking her relentlessly and making detailed observations about her life. This obsessive behavior ultimately leads him to commit a heinous act, which reflects the dark depths to which obsession can drive a person.

Oates explores the destructive nature of obsession, highlighting how it can erode one’s sense of self and morality. Quentin’s fixation on S. becomes all-consuming, causing him to lose touch with reality and act on his darkest impulses. This theme serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of unchecked fixation and the potential for ordinary individuals to descend into madness.

Another significant theme in “Zombie” is the dehumanization and objectification of individuals. Quentin’s obsession with S. reduces her from a person with her own thoughts, feelings, and autonomy to an object of his desires. He objectifies her, viewing her as a possession to be obtained rather than a human being with agency.

Through Quentin’s perspective, Oates illustrates how dehumanization can lead to the justification of harmful actions. Quentin convinces himself that he is acting out of love, rationalizing his disturbing behavior. This theme highlights the dangers of reducing others to mere objects of desire and underscores the importance of respecting the autonomy and humanity of all individuals.

“Zombie” blurs the line between victim and perpetrator, challenging readers to grapple with the complexities of morality and culpability. While Quentin is undeniably the antagonist of the story, Oates forces us to confront the possibility that he, too, may be a victim of his own obsessions and compulsions. His descent into madness is portrayed as a tragic unraveling of a troubled mind.

This theme raises important questions about accountability and the factors that contribute to a person’s actions. Can someone who is consumed by obsession and compulsion be held fully responsible for their deeds? “Zombie” invites readers to ponder the ethical and psychological dimensions of culpability, refusing to offer easy answers.

“Zombie” is a haunting exploration of obsession, dehumanization, and the blurred line between victim and perpetrator. Through the character of Quentin P., Oates delves into the dark recesses of the human psyche, offering a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of obsession and the potential for ordinary individuals to commit unspeakable acts. This thought-provoking short story challenges our understanding of morality and invites us to examine the complexities of human behavior. “Zombie” serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked obsession and the importance of treating all individuals with respect and empathy.