Books matching: technology versus nature
9 result(s)
- #1
Save:"Stations of the Tide" by Michael Swanwick is a futuristic science fiction novel that follows an unnamed bureaucrat sent to a planet called Miranda to investigate a magician accused of smuggling forbidden technology. Set against the backdrop of a seasonally flooded world, the story unfolds with elements of mystery, surrealism, and fantasy. The narrative weaves together themes of technology control, ecological adaptation, and interstellar civilization, challenging the protagonist both morally and psychologically as he navigates through a world filled with complex characters and intricate world-building.
The writing style of "Stations of the Tide" is described as beautifully surreal, transporting, and thought-provoking by readers. The book is praised for its immersive storytelling, intricate layering of meanings, and vivid imagery that blurs the lines between reality, drug-induced visions, and cyberspace. With elements of magic realism, high technology, and basic humanity, the novel explores themes of transformation, conspiracy, and the interplay between sorcery and technology in a richly detailed and imaginative setting.
For an instant Miranda lay blue and white beneath him, the icecaps fat and ready to melt, and then he was down. He took a highspeed across the stony plains of the Piedmont to the heliostat terminus at... - #2
Save:'The Shepherd' by Frederick Forsyth is a short story that takes place on Christmas Eve in 1957, following a pilot encountering something strange during a perilous North Sea crossing. The story slowly develops into a warm Christmas ghost story, keeping the reader gripped and offering a stunning conclusion that ends unexpectedly. Forsyth's writing style is detailed, authentic, and provides intimate details about aircraft due to the author's practical knowledge, drawing a clear line between those who have aviation experience and those who do not.
FOR A BRIEF moment, while waiting for the control tower to clear me for takeoff, I glanced out through the Perspex cockpit canopy at the surrounding German countryside. It lay white and crisp beneath ... - #3
Save:The Rise of Ransom City is a fantasy steampunk novel that follows the journey of Professor Harry Ransom as he travels from town to town on the Rim separating the made and unmade worlds. The main character, Harry Ransom, is described as plucky and entertaining, always dusting himself off and going on despite the challenges he faces. The book explores Harry's lifelong aspiration to make a better world through the application of a free energy device, all while getting entangled in the conflict between The Gun and The Line. The writing style is described as subtle yet vivid, painting a hazy, mystical sheen over the alternate history Wild American West setting.
Well, we moved on from the big red barn. One of the Line’s Heavier-Than-Air Vessels was spotted overhead. It circled, writing a kind of black-smoke question mark in the sky. Most likely it had nothing...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Half-Made World ) - #4
Save:'Echoes of the Great Song' by David Gemmell is a fast-paced heroic fantasy tale set in a dystopian world where an elder civilization is on the brink of collapse. The story revolves around the Avatars, immortal beings who rely on crystals for their power and immortality. As their empire crumbles, they must seek help from other races to fend off aggressors, including the menacing Crystal Queen. Filled with fantasy action, magic, splendour, and themes of loyalty, betrayal, courage, and frailty, this book offers a unique blend of SF, supernatural elements, and historical events, all intertwined in a fascinating fashion.
The writing style in 'Echoes of the Great Song' is characterized by superb storytelling, vividly bringing characters to life and exploring themes of overbearing pride, humility, and wonder. Despite some reviewers noting a fast-paced plot that may lack depth in character development, the book offers a gripping adventure with plenty of fantasy action, intriguing concepts, and a thought-provoking look at an elder civilization facing its demise.
- #5
Save:'A Door Into Time' in the 'Alex Hawk' series by Shawn Inmon is a unique take on time travel, focusing more on the assimilation of a modern man into a primitive society rather than traditional time-travel themes. The protagonist, Alex, finds himself in a future world of large tribes and dangerous creatures, where he must adapt to a life without modern technology. The story delves into themes of social commentary, conflict, and technology, while also exploring the challenges and adventures Alex faces in this unfamiliar world.
The narrative unfolds with detailed character development, vivid world-building, and an engaging plot that keeps readers hooked. blends elements of fantasy and post-apocalyptic settings, offering a fresh perspective on time travel by focusing on the interactions between Alex and the tribal society he becomes a part of.
- #6
Save:Fifty-One Tales by Lord Dunsany is a collection of short stories and prose pieces that delve into fantasy, mythology, and philosophical themes. The tales are often very short, atmospheric, and quirky, with some being twists on myths or fables. The writing style is described as poetic and literary, with a focus on irony, satire, humor, and sheer poetry packed into concise narratives.
I was climbing round the perilous outside of the Palace of Colquonhombros. So far below me that in the tranquil twilight and clear air of those lands I could only barely see them lay the craggy tops o... - #7
Save:"Technological Slavery" delves into the writings of Theodore J. Kaczynski, also known as "The Unabomber," exploring his views on the destructive nature of technology on society. Kaczynski argues for a revolution against the industrial technological system, highlighting the negative impacts of technology on human evolution, lifestyles, and meaningful existence. presents Kaczynski's predictions of the demise of civilization and the need for radical change to avert a bleak future. Through journal entries and manifesto excerpts, the author portrays Kaczynski's life in seclusion, his anti-technology beliefs, and his call for societal transformation.
6. Almost everyone will agree that we live in a deeply troubled society. One of the most widespread manifestations of the craziness of our world is leftism, so a discussion of the psychology of leftis... - #8
Save:'Changeling' by Roger Zelazny is a classic fantasy novel that weaves a tale of intrigue and fun, blending elements of science fiction and fantasy. The story revolves around two young men who were switched at birth, one inheriting a magical kingdom and the other excelling in engineering and technology. As they navigate their separate worlds, they discover their linked destinies and face challenges that test their friendship and loyalty. The book explores themes of magic versus technology, mis understood geniuses, and the consequences of meddling with fate. Zelazny's writing style is described as simple yet layered, filled with beautiful imagination and a command of sorcery that captivates readers from beginning to end.
As she passed the opening, she glanced within and realized immediately why the spell had been somewhat less than efficacious. She confronted Mouseglove the thief—a small, dark man, clad in blackclotha... - #9
Save:The White Forest by Adam McOmber is a mysterious and haunting novel set in Victorian England, following the intertwined lives of three close friends - Jane, Maddie, and Nathan. The story delves into Jane's mystical abilities, Nathan's involvement with a dangerous cult, and the disappearance of Nathan, which sets off a chain of events involving secrets, paranormal elements, and a search for truth. The book combines historical fiction with fantasy, horror, and romance, creating a dark and atmospheric narrative that keeps readers engaged and intrigued.
When Nathan Ashe disappeared from the ruined streets of Southwark, I couldn’t help but think the horror was, at least in part, my own design. I’d infected him, after all, filled him up with my so-call...
