Reltem

Reltem is a fictional character and central figure in the 2007 science fiction novel *The Windup Girl* by Paolo Bacigalupi. Set in a dystopian future where genetic engineering and climate change have drastically altered the world, Reltem is a genetically engineered "New Person" created by the Thai government to serve as a companion for the elderly and infirm. New Persons are designed to be docile, obedient, and emotionally attuned to human needs, making them ideal for caregiving roles.

Reltem’s origins lie in the controversial "New Person" program, which aims to address labor shortages and aging populations through bioengineered humans. Unlike traditional humans, New Persons are created through a process involving genetic modification and selective breeding, resulting in physical and behavioral traits that differ from those of naturally born individuals. Reltem, in particular, is described as having a gentle demeanor, a lack of ambition, and an innate desire to please, traits that make her well-suited for her role as a companion.

The novel explores themes of human identity, ethics, and the consequences of unchecked genetic experimentation. Reltem’s character serves as a lens through which readers examine the moral implications of creating beings with limited autonomy, as well as the societal and environmental pressures that drive such innovations. Her relationship with other characters, particularly the protagonist Emiko, highlights the complexities of human connection in a world where nature and technology have been radically reshaped.

While Reltem is not a protagonist in the traditional sense, her presence underscores the novel’s critique of technological determinism and the potential dangers of prioritizing efficiency and control over ethical considerations. Her fate, along with the broader narrative, raises questions about the boundaries of human intervention in biology and the long-term effects of such interventions on society.