Unlike many other works of apocalyptic fiction which cite technology as the bringer of destruction (Looking at you, Fallout series.) Station Eleven use of a biological agent to end the world allows it to explore the symbol and reality of technology in a much more subtle manner. Chapters 27-47 give the reader a front-row seat to the collapse to technology, as seen from the perspective of Frank’s apartment. As the two brothers try to wait out the pandemic, it is described how the news stations become more and more of a shell of their former shells, eventually ending with the broadcast camera just turning off. Obvious symbolism aside, this degradation of the news system disconnects people, and makes the world more localized. With this comes a return to naivety, which Jeevan expresses by comparing his brother’s apartment to the treehouse they would play when they were young. Jeevan frequently comments on how nice the calm snow is, and shows a reverence for naturalism. It makes sense that this sentiment would translate into his desire to leave the apartment, because in many ways he has unbound himself technology permanently. However, Frank is forever bound to the technology of his wheelchair, which even though is perfectly functional cannot coexist with the new, post-technology society.
The ordeal Jeevan undergoes in the apartment is representative of the larger, multi-faceted way Station Eleven handles all technology. Station Eleven puts a strong emphasis on communications technology by frequently mentioning blocked off highways and airplanes. These chapters equate the symbol of the airplane to the menacing presence of the prophet, in-line with how the airplane served as the angel of death which brought the virus to North America.
