What’s your favorite dystopian novel?

Perhaps one of The Hunger Games books. Or the classic, 1984. Maybe it’s Fahrenheit 451.

This week in the Are You Living In series, we’re going to plumb the depths of what it would look like to live in a dystopian world. This one strikes closer to home than say fantasy, which we’ll get to next week.

In many ways, dystopian fiction offers a glimpse into the possible future, bringing the action—and consequences—into the stark realization that some of the themes dealt with in dystopian stories aren’t far-fetched.

To answer the question, a list of 30 indications you’ve taken up residence in a dystopian world.

1. A large government rules with oppressive tyranny.
2. Some disaster has shattered life as we know it on earth, living behind a world echoing with familiarity yet cast in foreign shadows.
3. The outlook on life is bleak.
4. The commoners rise up in rebellion against the government.
5. The technology level is a combination of futuristic and pre-computer era.
6. Those in authority advocate peace and unity.
7. Secret groups abound.
8. In return for keeping people safe, the government also keeps them in line.
9. Ultimate victory against tyranny may be achieved, but not without great loss.
10. Propaganda abounds.
11. Any heroines encountered are kick-butt fighters—or learn to be.
12. Tears fall like rain.
13. Drastic environmental changes are common.
14. If you once read a book that now eerily describes the setting you’re in.
15. Androids or other types of robots appear.
16. Society is split by a stark divide between those who are in power and those who aren’t.
17. If something can go wrong, it typically does.
18. Hardship and pain are part of life.
19. Significant themes, often hidden, are at work in society.
20. Brainwashing is a distinct possibility.
21. People engage in two types of battle: physical and ideological.
22. The routine of society is unveiled as a cruel, inadequate way to live.
23. There are lots of teenagers running around saving people.
24. Said teenagers find it impossible not to be attracted to other teenagers in complicated, emotional relationships.
25. Said relationships almost always involve a love triangle.
26. Kissing. Lots of kissing. Especially with the teenagers.
27. The existence of unique tech gadgets is normal.
28. Violence is a tendency among people.
29. Emotional angst is as common as the corruption running rampant in the bureaucracy.
30. There’s almost certainly a tall, handsome, brooding fellow making his presence known.

What’s your favorite dystopian book? I’d love to hear your thoughts.