Exploring the Depths of Modern Work in Elaine Castillo’s Moderation

An Unpleasant Reality: The Life of a Content Moderator

In today’s digital age, the role of an Internet Content Moderator stands out as one of the least appealing jobs. This position requires individuals to sift through an unending stream of disturbing online content—think everything from hate speech to explicit material—while receiving meager compensation. Unlike sanitation workers, who can take comfort in the necessity of their jobs, content moderators often find themselves absorbed in the darkest facets of humanity, processing material that most would never wish to encounter. It’s a behind-the-scenes role that supports the immense profits of tech giants, all while highlighting the disturbing realities of the online world.

Meet Girlie Delamundo

In Elaine Castillo’s novel Moderation, we follow Girlie Delamundo, an exceptionally skilled content moderator who navigates this harrowing digital landscape. Girlie is portrayed as a top performer in her field, maintaining a tough exterior amid the chaos that surrounds her. The opening scenes immediately draw us into her world, where we learn that the moderators who endure in this environment are a select few—those who manage to face their daily battles without cracking under pressure.

"Girlie was, by every conceivable metric, one of the very best."

This stark reality sets the tone for Castillo’s examination of Girlie’s life, showcasing the psychological toll of continuous exposure to graphic and disturbing content.

A Move Towards New Opportunities

However, Girlie’s fortunes take a turn when a persuasive corporate leader, William Cheung, introduces her to a new opportunity within the company: moderating content for a prototype virtual reality (VR) service. This role not only promises a better financial reward but also includes innovative technology designed for therapeutic applications. At first glance, Cheung is everything one might expect from a corporate figure—charismatic, affluent, and, notably, very attractive.

Yet, beneath the allure of this new position lies a deeper narrative. Castillo cleverly intertwines personal ambition and the complexities of workplace dynamics, where Girlie’s personal life begins to mirror the romantic tropes often seen in classic literature.

An Unexpected Romance

Castillo herself has likened the plot of Moderation to a Jane Austen novel, framing the narrative as a blend of genres. Girlie and Cheung’s story isn’t just about navigating the trials of modern work; it also explores the unexpected and often humorous journey of self-discovery and romance.

The novel stands as a satire of contemporary societal issues, addressing themes such as the immigrant experience and the impacts of technology on human connection. Much like Austen’s characters, Girlie must confront her biases as she develops feelings for Cheung—her boss. The tension, both comedic and poignant, reflects the complexities of modern relationships in the workplace.

Echoes of Austen in a Digital Age

While Moderation grapples with critical social themes, it also pays homage to the classic romance genre. Castillo artfully repurposes elements from Austen’s works without veering into parody. Instead, she employs a narrative structure that resonates with those familiar with the intricacies of relationships in a contemporary setting.

For example, Girlie’s financial struggles and living situation resemble those of Austen’s heroines, bringing a relatable authenticity to her story. She shares a house in Las Vegas with family members, each navigating their own challenges in the aftermath of the 2008 housing crisis. The strength of Castillo’s writing lies in these layered narratives that reflect the real-world implications of economic distress while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

Cultural Significance in Language and Community

A unique aspect of Castillo’s writing is her incorporation of Tagalog and other Filipino cultural references, woven seamlessly into the narrative. This adds depth and authenticity to Girlie’s experiences without alienating non-Filipino readers. The dialogue feels natural, allowing the audience to engage with characters that are fully realized and representative of the diverse landscape in which they operate.

An example of this is Girlie’s interaction with a security guard at the Bellagio, who insists on being addressed as kuya—a term of respect for an older brother. This small exchange encapsulates the community bonds that Girlie navigates and the cultural expectations that shape her identity.

Navigating Innovation and Morality

As Girlie acclimates to her new position within the VR space, the story raises questions about the ethical implications of technology in our lives. The VR service, originally designed for therapeutic uses, also offers glimpses into how easily such powerful tools can be manipulated for less noble purposes. This tension between innovation and ethical responsibility reverberates throughout the narrative, emphasizing the need for vigilance in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Conclusion

Moderation masterfully interweaves humor, romance, and social critique, positioning itself as a contemporary exploration of life’s complexities in the face of a horrifying digital backdrop. Girlie Delamundo’s journey through the mire of human experience and online content becomes a compelling narrative of hope and resilience. The novel serves not only as a commentary on the nature of work and society but also as a reminder of the human capacity for connection, even amid the darkest realities.