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Story perspectives

George Saunders Explores Greed and Healing in Vigil

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

George Saunders, author of Vigil, revisits the Bardo in a narrative about transition.
The story centers on K.J. Boone, an oil CEO, highlighting his greed and lack of remorse.
Jill 'Doll' Blaine, a spiritual facilitator, guides Boone through his transition.
The novel shines when it focuses on Jill's journey toward healing and meaning.

History

Historical Context

The Great Depression began in 1929, triggered by the stock market crash and exacerbated by the Federal Reserve's failure to stabilize the banking system. By 1933, unemployment soared to 25%, and over 9,000 banks failed, leading to widespread economic despair. George Saunders' narrative reflects this struggle, while K.J. Boone's greed symbolizes the corporate excesses that contributed to the crisis, highlighting the need for societal recovery.

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Story summary

George Saunders, author of Vigil, revisits the Bardo in a narrative about transition.
The story centers on K.J. Boone, an oil CEO, highlighting his greed and lack of remorse.
Jill 'Doll' Blaine, a spiritual facilitator, guides Boone through his transition.
The novel shines when it focuses on Jill's journey toward healing and meaning.

1 / 2