Essay Questions

How does the novel explore the psychological and emotional effects of prolonged isolation in space?

Harvey portrays the astronauts' psychological and emotional experiences as they live aboard the spacecraft. The novel goes beyond the physical challenges of space travel to delve into the emotional toll of being disconnected from Earth and loved ones for extended periods. As the characters circle the planet, they begin to feel an intense sense of isolation, despite their close quarters with fellow astronauts. One notable aspect of this is the astronauts' struggle with their identity in the absence of Earth’s usual stimuli. Earth becomes both a distant memory and a near-constant presence. As one of the characters reflects, "The earth is the face of an exulted lover." The routine of watching Earth from space emphasizes their detachment from the daily realities of life on the ground. Moreover, Harvey uses the metaphor of floating in space as symbolic of existential drifting. The astronauts' repetitive circling of Earth mirrors their growing internal void.

In what ways does Orbital reflect on humanity’s relationship with Earth, especially through the environmental lens?

Harvey paints Earth as a living entity with which the astronauts feel a deep connection. From their vantage point in space, they observe the fragility of the planet. They witness environmental phenomena like storms, glaciers, and deserts in a way that magnifies their awareness of Earth's delicate balance. The novel emphasizes the beauty of Earth, particularly in how the astronauts marvel at the planet's changing landscapes as they orbit it sixteen times a day. Their observations become a form of environmental awareness, which is heightened by their isolation from the very world they are protecting through scientific inquiry.

The book reflects on how space exploration can bring a sense of ecological responsibility. Seeing Earth from a distance emphasizes its singularity, which makes it appear both more magnificent and more vulnerable. Harvey also integrates eco-literature themes by portraying how the astronauts wrestle with questions of sustainability and human impact on Earth. Their experiences in space sharpen their appreciation for the planet's natural beauty and underscore the urgency of its preservation.

How does Harvey use the motif of circularity in the narrative to enhance the narrative's philosophical depth?

The astronauts’ repeated orbits around Earth mirror the cyclical nature of human existence. Harvey uses the concept of circling the planet to raise existential questions about purpose, routine, and time. The characters are trapped in a physical and metaphorical loop echoing life’s cyclical and repetitive nature. This motif connects with the astronauts' philosophical musings on time and existence. As Roman counts the number of days he has been in space, he reflects on how the passage of time in space distorts their understanding of time on Earth. Space’s constant cycling through day and night challenges their perceptions of linear time. Moreover, the motif of circularity extends to the astronauts' introspection. They reflect on their lives on Earth, the relationships they left behind, and their place in the universe. Their orbiting existence becomes a metaphor for life's uncertainties.