Beyond This Horizon

Robert A. Heinlein (Anson MacDonald)

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Beyond This Horizon by Robert A. Heinlein is a novel that delves into themes of genetics, social organization, and the meaning of life in a futuristic society where citizens are armed and duels are frequent. The plot revolves around a genetic superman named Hamilton Felix who becomes involved with a revolutionary group aiming to reshape society according to their beliefs. The writing style of the book combines elements of action with philosophical musings on societal norms and genetic manipulation, creating a unique blend of science fiction and social commentary.

Characters:

Characters represent various societal ideals and dilemmas, with Hamilton Felix as a key figure navigating existential questions in a genetically engineered society.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by dense philosophical discussions, lengthy scientific explanations, and a mixture of polished prose with occasional clunkiness.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot involves genetic engineering shaping humanity, societal structures based on eugenics, and a protagonist's existential dilemmas amidst a revolution.

Setting:

The setting is a utopian future where society is shaped by genetic engineering and artificial selection, allowing for exploration of social dynamics.

Pacing:

The pacing is slow with extended periods of exposition that detract from the plot's excitement, resulting in inconsistent engagement.

Monroe-Alpha gave Hamilton a quick look in an effort to determine whether or not he was joking. But he could not be sure—he rarely could be sure. Hamilton’s remarks often did not appear serious, frequ...

Notes:

The novel features the famous Heinlein quote "An armed society is a polite society," emphasizing the importance of manners in a violent society.

It explores the effects of eugenics and selective breeding on society, showcasing a future where genetics significantly influence human behavior.

The protagonist, Hamilton Felix, is a genetic superman, a product of centuries of artificial selection, living in a utopia free of poverty and disease.

The story questions the purpose of humanity and what it means to survive, delving into existential themes.

Heinlein's style in this early work includes lengthy scientific explanations, potentially dulling the narrative for modern readers.

The novel juxtaposes a revolutionary movement against a highly structured society, raising questions about freedom and control.

It reflects on political and economic theories, suggesting a socialistic approach to planning and resources management in a future society.

The book has been criticized for its treatment of women, portraying them in subordinate roles despite their intelligence and capabilities.

Many reviewers noted that the book combines action with philosophical musings, leading to a disjointed reading experience.

Heinlein's writing in this novel demonstrates his emerging beliefs, paving the way for themes he would explore in his later works.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions of eugenics, potential violence, and themes surrounding existential crisis.

Has Romance?

There is a notable romantic element involving the protagonist and other characters, though it serves more as a subplot.

From The Publisher:

Classic Heinlein. Short-sighted utopians in a futurist society recruit a disaffected "superior" man, and get far more than they bargain for. With an all new afterword by Tony Daniel.

Utopia has been achieved. For centuries, disease, hunger, poverty and war have been things found only in the histories. And applied genetics has given men and women the bodies of athletes and a lifespan of over a century.

They should all have been very happy....

But Hamilton Felix is bored. And he is the culmination of a star line; each of his last thirty ancestors chosen for superior genes. Hamilton is, as far as genetics can produce one, the ultimate man. And this ultimate man can see no reason why the human race should survive, and has no intention of continuing the pointless comedy.

However, Hamilton's life is about to become less boring. A secret cabal of revolutionaries who find utopia not just boring, but desperately in need of leaders who know just What Needs to be Done, are planning to revolt and put themselves in charge. Knowing of Hamilton's disenchantment with the modern world, they have recruited him to join their Glorious Revolution. Big mistake! The revolutionaries are about to find out that recruiting a superman is definitely not a good idea....

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About the Author:

Robert A. Heinlein, four-time winner of the Hugo Award and recipient of three Retro Hugos, received the first Grand Master Nebula Award for lifetime achievement. His worldwide bestsellers have been translated into 22 languages and include Stranger in a Strange Land, Starship Troopers, Time Enough for Love, and The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress. His long-lost first novel, For Us, the Living, was recently published by Scribner and Pocket Books.

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