Super Short Summary

In George Saunders' Pastoralia, the title novella "Pastoralia" follows a man portraying a caveman in an entertainment complex, dealing with the hardships and absurdities of his job and personal life. Several other stories—like "Sea Oak," "Winky," "The Falls," and "The Barber’s Unhappiness"—explore themes of economic struggle, familial obligations, and the pursuit of happiness amid societal expectations. Sensitive topics such as illness, financial hardship, substance use, and grief are present throughout the collection.