This paper explores the underlying themes in two of Douglas Coupland's novels, "Microserfs" and "
Generation X: Tales for
an Accelerated Culture." The most predominant theme in both works of writing is the fear of death. Coupland uses this fear, as well as others, to aid in the characters' journey of self-
discovery. There is a very clear and present need for the characters to find themselves in both of Coupland's observant and self-conscious novels. Coupland identifies immediately, before one can go so far as to open either book, that what is about to be read is a story of a
generation different than any other. This paper discusses the plot of both novels while supplying an analysis of the main characters. The characters' witty, philosophical looks on life, death and morality demonstrate their fear of death. This very morbid fear underlies all of the characters in both works of writing.