Dead Malls and Right-Wing Populism

This chapter delves into the captivating intersection of decaying malls, the pervasive influence of zombie narratives, and the sociopolitical landscape of right-wing populism. Dead malls, reminiscent of economic downturns and societal shifts, become the focal point for dissecting the complex sociopolitical undercurrents which reflect as well as fuel populist ideologies. The exploration of these decaying commercial spaces unveils a tapestry of economic distress and cultural nostalgia. Through the lens of zombie narratives intertwined with dead malls, the chapter articulates how these sites symbolize economic displacement and invoke a sense of eerie cultural loss. The uncanny allure of zombiethemed cultural expressions within these malls mirrors societal frustrations arising from economic disparities and perceived neglect by political elites – especially in the era of Donald Trump and his unique brand of neo-populism in the United States. This chapter meticulously weaves the narratives of dead malls and zombie culture with the ascent of right-wing populism. It scrutinizes the parallels between survivalist tropes in zombie narratives and the libertarian fantasy of freedom from established norms that are prevalent in right-wing fantasies. The associations between zombie media, the mall as a symbolic space, and the valorization of individualism, self-reliance, and gun culture within these narratives become vividly apparent. By interconnecting dead malls, zombie narratives, nostalgia-driven music, and right-wing populism, this chapter illuminates the intricate dynamics shaping contemporary societies. It underscores how these seemingly disparate phenomena converge, fostering narratives that resonate deeply within cultural, economic, and political realms. Understanding this convergence becomes pivotal in comprehending the multifaceted landscapes of societal shifts and ideological movements.