PG&E outages in S.F. leave 130,000 without electricity, no timeline for return of power - San Francisco Chronicle

Red Rising Sparks Community During Power Outage

In the midst of a devastating power outage in San Francisco, a group of book lovers came together to share their love for reading. Industry of All Nations, a bookstore, was forced to close its doors early due to the blackout, but before they went dark, customers had gathered around to continue their literary journey.

Assistant designer Miles Barrett was among those who braved the darkness to finish his latest read, Pierce Brown's Red Rising. As he sat in the store, surrounded by fellow readers, he illuminated his page with a candle, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.

For Brown, reading is more than just a hobby – it's a way of life. He has often spoken about the importance of getting lost in a good book and letting the words transport him to another world. And for those who gathered at Industry of All Nations, that's exactly what happened.

"We were all discussing our favorite books when the power went out," said Barrett. "At first, we thought it was just going to be a temporary outage, but then we realized it was more serious. But instead of being disappointed, we decided to make the most of it."

The group used their phones as flashlights to continue reading and discussing the book. As they delved deeper into the world of Red Rising, their passion for the story grew. The novel's themes of rebellion, power struggles, and self-discovery resonated deeply with the group.

"I was really impressed by how well Pierce Brown had woven together different elements of science fiction and fantasy," said Barrett. "The way he created a complex world with its own history and politics was truly captivating."

As they read, the group discovered that they shared many common interests and passions. They exchanged stories about their favorite books, authors, and characters, creating a sense of community among strangers.

"It's amazing how a power outage can bring people together," said Barrett. "We were all strangers just hours before, but as we talked about our love for reading, we found that we had so much in common."

The experience was not without its challenges, however. The group had to navigate the darkness and use their phones to communicate. But despite the obstacles, they persevered, fueled by their shared passion for reading.

"I think it's a testament to the power of books," said Barrett. "They have a way of transcending time and circumstance, bringing people together in ways that nothing else can."

As the night wore on, the group continued to discuss Red Rising, sharing their thoughts and insights about the story. They laughed, debated, and learned from each other, creating a sense of camaraderie that will be remembered for a long time.

For Miles Barrett and his fellow readers, the power outage was not an inconvenience – it was an opportunity. An opportunity to connect with others over a shared love of reading, to discover new ideas and perspectives, and to experience the magic of a great story together.

The Importance of Community in Reading

As we reflect on this remarkable event, it's clear that community plays a vital role in our love for reading. When we gather with others who share our passions, we create a sense of belonging and connection that can be hard to find elsewhere.

Reading is often seen as a solitary activity, but the experience of sharing a story with others is fundamentally different. It's a collaborative process that requires active listening, empathy, and understanding.

"When we read alone, we bring our own perspectives and biases to the table," said Barrett. "But when we read with others, we can see things from different angles, challenge our assumptions, and grow as readers."

The power outage at Industry of All Nations was a reminder that reading is not just about individual enjoyment – it's also about connection, community, and shared experience.

Pierce Brown's Red Rising: A Story of Rebellion and Self-Discovery

For those who may not be familiar with Pierce Brown's Red Rising, the novel tells the story of Darrow, a young man from the lower classes who is forced to participate in a deadly game known as the Hunger Games. The game is designed to crush the spirits of the poor and reinforce the power of the elite.

But Darrow is different. He is driven by a desire for revenge and a need to protect those he cares about. As he navigates the treacherous world of the Hunger Games, he must confront his own demons and make impossible choices that will determine the course of his life.

Throughout the novel, Brown explores themes of rebellion, power struggles, and self-discovery. He creates a complex world with its own history and politics, where characters are multidimensional and flawed.

The Legacy of Industry of All Nations

Industry of All Nations is more than just a bookstore – it's a gathering place for book lovers and a symbol of the community that can be created around shared interests. The store has been a fixture in San Francisco's literary scene for years, hosting author events, book clubs, and other activities that celebrate the joy of reading.

The power outage at Industry of All Nations was a reminder of the importance of this community and the role that books play in bringing people together. As we move forward in an increasingly digital world, it's more important than ever to nurture these connections and create spaces for people to come together over shared passions.

Conclusion

As we look back on this remarkable event, it's clear that reading has the power to transform our lives. When we gather with others who share our love of literature, we create a sense of community and connection that can be hard to find elsewhere.

Whether you're a fan of science fiction, fantasy, or any other genre, there's no denying the magic of getting lost in a great story. And as Pierce Brown so eloquently puts it, "The best way to predict your future is to create it."

So let us celebrate our love for reading and the community that comes with it. Let us cherish these moments of connection and shared experience, and let us continue to nurture the connections that bring us together over a shared passion for books.

A Final Note from Miles Barrett

As I reflect on this incredible experience, I'm reminded of the importance of finding joy in the everyday moments. When we're forced to adapt to unexpected circumstances – like a power outage – it's our response that defines us.

For me, reading is more than just a hobby or a way to pass the time. It's a source of inspiration, comfort, and connection. And when I'm surrounded by others who share my passion, it feels like I'm exactly where I'm meant to be.

So let's keep reading, sharing our stories, and connecting with each other over a shared love of books. The world may change around us, but the power of literature will always remain a constant source of hope, inspiration, and connection.