In "Oryx and Crake," a novel by Margaret Atwood, the concept of reality versus non-reality is explored through the lens of a dystopian future. The juxtaposition of what is real and what is not allows characters and readers to reflect on the true nature of existence. The statement "Is it real? No, it is not real" emphasizes the uncertainty and ambiguity that permeate the world Atwood creates, prompting questions about authenticity and perception.

This exploration of reality is significant as it challenges the characters to distinguish between their flawed experiences and the underlying truths of their world. By questioning the elements that are deemed 'not real,' the narrative suggests that understanding these illusions can lead to a deeper comprehension of what is genuinely real. Atwood uses this theme to provoke thought on the implications of a society that blurs the lines between reality and fabrication.