When did the body first set out on its own adventures? Snowman thinks; after having ditched its old travelling companions, the mind and the soul, for whom it had once been considered a mere corrupt vessel or else a puppet acting out their dramas for them, or else bad company, leading the other two astray.
In "Oryx and Crake," the character of Snowman reflects on the idea of the body embarking on its own journey, separate from the mind and soul. This separation suggests a departure from traditional views where the body was seen merely as a vessel or a puppet, controlled by higher faculties. Snowman's thoughts hint at a shift in perspective, where the body gains autonomy and purpose beyond its previous roles.
This contemplation raises questions about identity and the relationship between body, mind, and soul. By abandoning the mind and soul, the body appears to seek its own experiences and adventures, redefining what it means to be human. This theme of detachment and independence highlights the complexity of existence and the interplay between physicality and consciousness in Atwood's narrative.
