"Station Eleven," a novel by Emily St. John Mandel, explores the aftermath of a global pandemic that decimates civilization. The narrative follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world transformed by loss and chaos. Central to the story is the importance of culture and memory, with a traveling theater troupe keeping the arts alive amid desolation, reflecting humanity's resilience and the need for connection.

The quote, "That kind of insanity's contagious," highlights the spreading nature of despair and irrationality in times of crisis. Mandel emphasizes how fear and madness can infect individuals, shaping their actions and relationships. As characters confront both external dangers and their inner turmoil, the narrative delves into themes of survival, the impact of choices, and the threads that connect humanity even in the darkest moments.