Naraku (奈落) is a Japanese term that resonates with the current state of the world and its pervasive and seemingly insoluble problems. Originally a religious term, the word’s meaning has evolved in recent times to refer to deeply flawed conditions more generally, becoming 'the worst of all possible worlds' in its longer form of naraku no soko (奈落の底). This volume draws its inspiration from naraku, here interpreting it as describing states of discord, dysfunction, and dystopia. The essays contained within touch upon historical concerns with decline, systemic failure, and the betrayal of hopes; literary and other depictions of failed and failing societies and futures of death and destruction; religious prophecies of spiritual and worldly decay; and philosophical musings and lamentations concerning the multifold failings of humanity and the futility of human civilization.
