hapnikusegu

Hapnikusegu is a fictional concept that appears in the novel "The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August" by Claire North. It is a form of immortality where individuals, known as kalachakra, are reborn into their past lives upon death, retaining all the memories and experiences from their previous existences. These kalachakra are aware of their condition and the existence of others like them.

The term "hapnikusegu" itself is a made-up word within the novel, implying a cyclical or recurring existence. Those who experience hapnikusegu are able to learn and grow over multiple lifetimes, accumulating vast knowledge and understanding. However, this also means they are destined to relive significant historical events and personal tragedies repeatedly.

The kalachakra have a complex society and communicate through hidden messages left for their future selves to find. They play a crucial role in influencing the course of history, often acting to prevent catastrophic events or steer humanity towards a specific future. The concept explores themes of fate, free will, the burden of knowledge, and the nature of existence. Harry August, the protagonist, is a kalachakra who must grapple with the immense responsibility and emotional toll of his unique condition. The rules and limitations of hapnikusegu are central to the plot, driving the narrative and the protagonist's quest.