The Bar Code Tattoo

The novel explores the effects of AI-generated artwork, which is also a prevalent debate in modern society. How does the author’s portrayal relate to the current concerns of artists who feel threatened by the increasing popularity of AI technologies? Does Weyn’s 2004 novel accurately predict current issues, or are there key differences? Use specific examples from the text to support your point.

What does the novel imply about the insidious nature of fascism? What warning signs does Kayla’s society show in the years leading up to Global-1’s takeover and the implementation of the bar code tattoo?

The novel’s narrative skims through large portions of time as the story progresses. How does this irregular pacing affect the overall story? Are there any advantages to this technique? In what ways would the novel have benefitted from slower pacing?

If you were to write an article for KnotU2, what topic would you cover? Write an article for KnotU2 that explores your chosen topic further.

How does Kayla’s and Mfumbe’s behavior demonstrate the costs and benefits of resisting peer pressure?

The novel openly explores how fledgling technologies threaten civil rights and personal privacy, often exaggerating the feared effects and taking them to their logical extremes. Research a real-life privacy issue in the realm of social media and compare it to the situation described in the novel. In what ways is Weyn’s message realistic? In what ways might it be overexaggerated?

Mfumbe rejects the bar code tattoo even when he knows that obtaining it would benefit him socially and professionally. What might be some unforeseen disadvantages that even the fortunate might have to face with the bar code tattoo?

How does the bar code tattoo affect relationships between people throughout the novel? Consider different dynamics, such as those between family, friends, and romantic partners. Use evidence from the text to support your answer.