Apocalypse Now

Post-apocalyptic wastelands generally make exciting, compelling settings for movies and books. From the action heroism of Road Warrior to the heart-wrenching examination of loyalty, love and survival in Cormac McCarthy's The Road, the destruction of society as we know it will probably be a recurring theme in literature and film until it actually happens. The harsh, desolate landscapes symbolize life's cruelty, while the lawless aftermath plays into the violent anarchist fantasies lurking deep in the hearts of everyone. These wastelands are almost always extremely unpleasant places that few would hope to witness firsthand. I say "almost," because author Victor Gischler has envisioned an apocalyptic world that actually doesn't sound too bad. After holing up to escape the end of the world, Mortimer Tate emerges from a mountain cave to discover that what's left of society revolves around Joey Armageddon's Sassy A-Go-Go strip clubs, offering hot dancers, cold beer and M16-toting bouncers. Come to think of it, that sounds a lot like West Dallas. Gischler will discuss and sign copies of Go-Go Girls of the Apocalypse 2 p.m. Sunday at Barnes & Noble, 7700 W. Northwest Highway. Also appearing will be Yellow Fever author Anthony N. Smith. Call 214-739-1124.
Sun., July 13, 2 p.m., 2008