In Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World, the phrase “everyone belongs to everyone else” encapsulates a society that promotes complete promiscuity and the absence of personal attachments. In Chapter 3, we see this cultural norm in action, with characters engaging in casual relationships and seeing monogamy as outdated or even frowned upon. Bernard Marx, however, stands out as someone who feels discomfort and alienation in this environment. His unease reflects his longing for genuine, meaningful connections and his resistance to the superficiality of his society.
This tension in the novel mirrors modern discussions about relationships today. In contemporary culture, we often see a celebration of casual dating and the idea of not being tied down. Bernard’s character invites us to reflect on the value of deeper emotional bonds and the consequences of a society that prioritizes instant gratification over genuine connection.
In essence, Bernard’s struggle highlights a timeless tension between societal norms and individual desires, making Brave New World as relevant today as it was when it was first published. #TimePreference