Showing posts with label Clifford Simak. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Clifford Simak. Show all posts

Wednesday, 10 December 2025

Time is the simplest thing by Clifford D. Simak

A good read but not as good as the other two novels in this omnibus. My favourite is Way Station and then a close second A Choice of Gods. Time is the simplest thing follows an interesting premise about evolved human telepaths and with other powers but failed to grab my full attention. I liked the idea of the protagonist merging his mind with one of an alien being. But little of that is explored or developed. Unexplained are also the origins of Fishhook, an obscure organisation of paranormal humans, and their use of alien technology.

Monday, 9 December 2024

Choice of Gods by Clifford Simak.

A good read with philosophical food for thought. It's a critique of our worship and dependency on technology and the neglect for everything in nature. Those who were taken were technology worshipers and continued to be in the planet's they were sent to. The ones who stayed developed a strong connection with nature, especially the Indians. While white people had strong roots on earth, they relied on the robots for all their household and farming work. This seemed to me a contradiction, but after thinking a bit, I realised this is how many of us live, in love with nature and with our dishwashers, cars, and smartphones. Anyways the ending was a bit unclear to me, but I guess it was well worth the ride.

Tuesday, 12 December 2023

Way Station by Clifford Simak.

Super duper Good!! 

Much more than science fiction and very well written. 👍 This is not a sophisticated, technology-focused story. Most of the story takes place inside the station with Enoch reflecting about the past and future or talking to alien visitors. There is some action outside but not much. I'd say this is a character-driven novel but also a philosophical one exploring the role of humanity in the cosmos, longevity, immortality, civilization and progress. Great read.