Arthur Hailey's "Overload": A Summary
Overload is a 1979 novel by Arthur Hailey that delves into the world of California's electricity production industry. The story centers around Golden State Power and Light, a fictional public service company, and its employees, particularly focusing on the vice-president, Nimrod "Nim" Goldman.
Here's a summary of the key points:
- Setting: California, 1970s
- Company: Golden State Power and Light (GSP&L), a fictional public utility
- Main character: Nimrod "Nim" Goldman, vice-president of GSP&L
- Plot: The novel explores the challenges and complexities of managing a large power company, including:
- Technical issues: The threat of power outages and blackouts due to aging infrastructure and rising energy demands.
- Political pressures: Navigating the interests of various stakeholders, including government regulators, environmental groups, and consumers.
- Personal struggles: Nim's internal conflict between his professional responsibilities and his extramarital affairs.
- Themes: The novel raises important questions about energy dependence, environmental concerns, corporate responsibility, and the human cost of technological progress.
Additional points:
- The novel is known for its realistic portrayal of the power industry and its attention to detail.
- Hailey's engaging writing style keeps the reader hooked throughout the story.
- The book remains relevant today, despite being published in the 1970s, as it raises timeless questions about energy and its impact on society.
Arthur Hailey: A Master of Industry and Human Drama
Arthur Hailey was a British-Canadian novelist renowned for his best-selling novels set against the backdrops of various industries. Born in England in 1920, he emigrated to Canada in 1947 and quickly established himself as a successful writer. His novels, known for their intricate plots, compelling characters, and engaging storytelling, have sold over 170 million copies worldwide and been translated into 38 languages.
Hailey's Signature Style:
- Detailed research: He meticulously researched each industry he wrote about, ensuring the authenticity and accuracy of his fictional portrayals. This in-depth knowledge lent his stories a sense of realism and intrigue.
- Interweaving narratives: His novels often featured multiple characters and storylines, all converging and interacting in dramatic ways. This created a dynamic and suspenseful reading experience.
- Focus on human drama: While the industry settings provided captivating backdrops, Hailey's core focus was always on human emotions and relationships. He explored themes of ambition, love, betrayal, and survival, making his characters relatable and engaging.
Some of his most famous works include:
- Hotel (1965): A behind-the-scenes look at the operations of a grand hotel, showcasing the lives and struggles of its staff and guests.
- Airport (1968): A thrilling tale of disaster preparedness and human resilience set against the backdrop of a major airport.
- Wheels (1971): A compelling story of the automotive industry, exploring the challenges and triumphs of a fictional car company.
- The Moneychangers (1975): An exposé of the world of international banking, revealing its secrets and power dynamics.
- Overload (1979): A cautionary tale about the dangers of nuclear energy, raising questions about safety and risk management.
Hailey's Legacy:
Arthur Hailey's legacy lives on in his captivating stories that continue to entertain and engage readers around the world. He is considered a master of the "industrial novel" genre, and his insights into various industries remain relevant today. His ability to combine meticulous research with compelling human drama is a testament to his exceptional storytelling skills.
