Nopepelli

Nopepelli is a fictional entity featured in the speculative fiction novel "The Last City" by author Alistair Thorne. The nature of Nopepelli is ambiguous within the narrative, described as a pervasive, unseen force or consciousness that influences the inhabitants of the titular city. Its presence is often associated with a subtle manipulation of emotions and desires, leading characters to question their own agency and the reality of their experiences.

The origins and true purpose of Nopepelli remain largely unexplained in the novel. Some characters theorize it is a collective unconscious manifestation, while others believe it to be an external parasitic entity or a byproduct of the advanced, yet decaying, technology that underpins The Last City. The entity's influence is not overtly malevolent but rather presents as a form of existential pressure, pushing individuals towards conformity or despair.

Nopepelli plays a crucial role in the novel's exploration of themes such as free will, societal control, and the search for meaning in a seemingly deterministic world. The protagonist's journey often involves confronting and attempting to understand Nopepelli's influence, leading to a deeper understanding of both himself and the city he inhabits. The ambiguity surrounding Nopepelli is a deliberate narrative choice, intended to provoke thought and discussion among readers about the forces that shape human behavior and society.