The Day of the Triffids – Summary
The Day of the Triffids is a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel set in a world where most of humanity has been blinded by a mysterious green meteor shower. The story follows Bill Masen, a biologist specialising in triffids—carnivorous plants capable of locomotion and equipped with a deadly sting. Bill awakens in a London hospital, his eyes bandaged after a triffid attack, to find the world in chaos. As one of the few sighted survivors, he must navigate a collapsing civilisation while facing the increasing threat of the mobile, predatory triffids.
Bill soon meets Josella Playton, another sighted survivor, and together they join a group of survivors planning to establish a new society. However, their plans are disrupted when they are kidnapped by a man named Wilfred Coker, who forces them to care for groups of blind people. After escaping, Bill embarks on a journey to find Josella, encountering various groups of survivors along the way, including a young girl named Susan whom he rescues.
The novel explores the challenges of rebuilding society in a world where the majority of the population is blind and a hostile plant species threatens human survival. Bill and his companions must contend with rival groups of survivors, some with authoritarian tendencies, while trying to establish safe havens. They experiment with different social structures and survival strategies, all while defending against the ever-present triffid threat.
Throughout the story, the characters grapple with moral dilemmas, such as the responsibility of the sighted towards the blind and the ethics of rebuilding society. The novel culminates with Bill and his group establishing a colony on the Isle of Wight, determined to reclaim their world from the triffids.
Key themes:
- Survival in a post-apocalyptic world
- The fragility of human civilisation
- Adaptation to radical change
- Ethical dilemmas in extreme circumstances
- The relationship between humans and nature
- The importance of scientific knowledge in crisis situations
Character Details
Bill Masen
Bill Masen is the protagonist and narrator of the story. A biologist in his late twenties, Bill specialises in triffids and survives the blinding meteor shower due to being in hospital with his eyes bandaged. Intelligent, pragmatic and adaptable, Bill becomes a natural leader in the post-apocalyptic world. He possesses a scientific mindset that proves invaluable in understanding and combating the triffid threat. Despite the harsh realities of their new world, Bill maintains a sense of compassion and moral responsibility, often grappling with difficult ethical decisions. His journey throughout the novel is not just one of physical survival, but also of personal growth as he learns to balance practicality with humanity in a world turned upside down.
Josella Playton
Josella is a young woman in her mid-twenties whom Bill rescues early in the story. Coming from a wealthy background, Josella is known for having written a controversial book before the catastrophe. Despite her privileged upbringing, she quickly adapts to the new world, demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness. Josella becomes Bill’s romantic interest and partner, often providing emotional support and alternative perspectives to his more scientific approach. She is characterised by her intelligence, adaptability and forward-thinking nature, often pushing Bill to consider long-term solutions and the broader implications of their actions. Josella’s character arc sees her transform from a somewhat scandalous socialite to a key figure in the survivors’ efforts to rebuild society.
Susan
Susan is a young girl, around ten years old, whom Bill rescues after finding her alone in her family home. Despite her young age, Susan shows remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of the catastrophe. She quickly becomes an important member of Bill’s group, representing hope for the future. Susan’s presence often serves as a reminder to the adult characters of their responsibility to the next generation and the importance of building a sustainable future. Her character also highlights the psychological impact of the disaster on children and the challenges of growing up in a post-apocalyptic world.
Wilfred Coker
Wilfred Coker is initially presented as an antagonist when he kidnaps Bill and other sighted individuals to force them to care for groups of blind people. However, Coker’s character is more complex than a simple villain. He is driven by a strong sense of social responsibility and a belief that the sighted have a duty to help the blind majority. While his methods are initially harsh and misguided, Coker eventually becomes an ally to Bill. His character represents the moral ambiguity that arises in crisis situations and the different approaches people might take in trying to rebuild society. Coker’s journey from antagonist to ally illustrates the novel’s theme of adaptation and the need for cooperation in the face of overwhelming challenges.
Reader Fit
The Day of the Triffids would appeal to readers who enjoy thought-provoking science fiction that explores the consequences of global catastrophe. It’s particularly suited for those interested in post-apocalyptic scenarios, societal collapse and the challenges of rebuilding civilisation. The novel would also attract readers who appreciate stories that blend adventure with philosophical and ethical questions.
Fans of classic science fiction will find much to enjoy in Wyndham’s writing style and his ability to create a believable and immersive world. The book’s exploration of human nature in crisis situations makes it relevant to readers interested in psychology and sociology.
Moreover, The Day of the Triffids would appeal to environmentally conscious readers due to its themes of human interaction with nature and the potential consequences of manipulating plant life. Its exploration of disability and societal structures also makes it interesting for readers concerned with social issues.
Quick Facts
Genre: Post-apocalyptic Science Fiction
Publication Year: 1951
Reading Time Estimate: 6-8 hours (based on average reading speed)
Notable Awards: Retroactively awarded the Apollo Award in 1966
Related Books
- “The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells
- “Earth Abides” by George R. Stewart
- “On the Beach” by Nevil Shute
Buy the Book
Dive into this classic of post-apocalyptic fiction and explore a world where humanity’s dominance is threatened by carnivorous plants. The Day of the Triffids offers a gripping adventure and a thought-provoking examination of society in crisis.
Don’t miss out on this influential work that has shaped the science fiction genre for decades. Get your copy today and join Bill Masen in his fight for survival against the triffids!
