The story draws inspiration from historical utopian communities such as the Shakers and 19th-century socialist communes, examining their rise and failures while questioning whether separatism can truly solve societal issues.

This graphic novel by Mattie Lubchansky marks a more complex, ambitious departure from her previous work, featuring a dreamier, weirder tone with extensive research and multiple plot revisions.

Set in 2081, 'Simplicity' explores themes of identity, political engagement, and societal failures in America through a narrative involving a cult, monsters, and oligarchs.

The book’s tone and structure are influenced by satirical works like Washington Irving’s 'A History of New York' and the film 'First Cow,' aiming to present a layered, historically aware perspective that questions simplistic narratives.

Lubchansky discusses the historical context of Upstate New York, especially the Burned-Over District, as a region of religious fervor and upheaval, reflecting the cyclical nature of societal change in American history.

The story centers around Lucius, a trans ethnographer who is highly organized and out of his element, symbolizing themes of alienation, control, and broader ideas of American utopianism and separatism.

'Simplicity' challenges readers to question morality, community, and societal progress, using influences like 'The Wicker Man' to subvert cult narratives and explore what makes a society function.

Lubchansky reflects on American exceptionalism and the myth of escaping societal issues through separatist communities, suggesting that current retreat efforts are ultimately ineffective due to global and historical realities.

The novel explores how museums and history are constructs, reimagining dioramas about Native Americans to illustrate how narratives are shaped and altered over time.

Using framing devices like museum visits and travelogue subtitles, the story emphasizes the fluid, constructed nature of historical narratives and who controls storytelling.