Books matching: grand ideas
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- #1
Save:'The Fountains of Paradise' by Arthur C. Clarke is a science fiction novel that follows the story of engineer Vannevar Morgan's ambitious quest to build a space elevator on Earth. Set against the backdrop of overcoming challenges, including conflicts with a group of monks residing on the mountain crucial for the elevator, the book intricately explores the themes of tradition versus progress and human accomplishment through scientific innovation. The writing style is described as technical and detail-oriented, focusing on the science and engineering aspects of the space elevator project while blending in elements of history and human foibles.
The crown grew heavier with each passing year. When the Venerable Bodhidharma Mahanayake Thero had—so reluctantly—first placed it upon his head, Prince Kalidasa was surprised by its lightness. Now, tw... - #2
Save:Set in the far distant future, 'The City and the Stars' by Arthur C. Clarke follows the story of Alvin, the first child born in ten million years in Diaspar, the last city on Earth. Alvin, unique in his desire to explore beyond the boundaries of the stagnant and enclosed city, embarks on a journey that leads to seismic changes for his home city and a confrontation with its lost past. The narrative weaves through mysteries surrounding Diaspar, the fate of humankind, and the stars, presenting a tale of human superation and exploration in a decadent and futuristic setting. The book gradually transitions from a novel of mystery and investigation to a story about transcending religions and myths, with a vision of a future Earth that is thought-provoking and rich in worldbuilding.
IT HAD TAKEN them many hours to fight their way out of the Cave of the White Worms. Even now, they could not be sure that some of the pallid monsters were not pursuing them—and the power of their weap... - #3
Save:'Anathem' by Neal Stephenson is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that delves into a parallel world where scientists and mathematicians live in cloistered communities, exploring profound issues of physics, cosmology, and philosophy. The book follows the journey of Fraa Erasmus, a member of a monastic sect, as he uncovers mysteries and navigates a complex society with limited interaction with the outside world. The story unfolds slowly, revealing a world rich in detail and depth, challenging readers with its intricate plot and unique language.
The writing style of 'Anathem' is characterized by its slow pace, Tolkeinian depth, and intricate world-building. The book presents a mix of adventure, philosophical exploration, and scientific concepts, weaving together themes of quantum mechanics, consciousness, and the nature of reality. Despite its length and complex terminology, the novel captivates readers with its grand ideas and meticulous attention to detail, offering a blend of speculative fiction and intellectual exploration.
Ita:(1) In late Praxic Orth, an acronym (therefore, in ancient texts sometimes written ITA) whose precise etymology is a casualty of the loss of shoddily preserved information that will forever enshro... - #4
Save:The Man in the Maze by Robert Silverberg is a science fiction novel that delves into the story of a human exiled to a distant planet with a dangerous maze built by a long-dead civilization. The book intricately weaves themes of advanced technology, complex galactic politics, and explores the psychological depths of the characters as they navigate through the maze and their inner struggles. The plot unfolds as three exceptional men find themselves in a crucible of moral choices that may ultimately impact the fate of humanity, all while dealing with themes of vulnerability, connection, and emotion.
Muller knew the maze quite well by this time. He understood its snares and its delusions, its pitfalls, its deadly traps. He had lived within it for nine years. That was long enough to come to terms w... - #5
Save:'Rama Revealed' by Arthur C. Clarke is a continuation of the Rama series that explores the encounters between humans and alien civilizations within the mysterious Rama spaceship. The book delves into themes of human reactions to alien contact, ethical dilemmas, and the interplay between rational thought and emotion. The plot intertwines elements of science fiction, character-driven narratives, and reflections on the human condition, providing contrast between alien societies and humanity.
The writing style in 'Rama Revealed' combines elements of mystery, suspense, and exploration of big ideas, reminiscent of the classic SF style of Arthur C. Clarke. The book is praised for its ability to stimulate excitement and wonderment, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged chapter after chapter, even amidst its flaws and deviations from the original Rama storyline.
politicians alike proclaimed that a new era in human history had begun. The International Space Agency (ISA), working with the Council of Governments (COG), developed careful procedures for handling t...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rama ) - #6
Save:'The Chief' in the 'Highland Guard' series by Monica McCarty follows the story of an arranged marriage where the connection between the couple sparks in the bedroom before they truly get to know each other. The book is set in medieval Scotland and focuses on the romance between the characters, portraying their struggles and growth throughout the storyline. The writing style of the book is engaging, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps the readers immersed in the Scottish setting of the story.
A sharp hush fell over the hall, like the expectant quiet following a loud crack of thunder, as the clerk finished reading the missive. The score of warriors gathered around the great hall of Dunvegan... - #7
Save:'Double Star' by Robert A. Heinlein follows the story of an out-of-work actor named Lawrence Smith who is unexpectedly recruited to impersonate a kidnapped political leader. As Smith delves deeper into his role, he is faced with political intrigue, moral dilemmas, and personal growth. The book combines elements of adventure, politics, and introspection, set in a futuristic interplanetary society. Heinlein's writing style in 'Double Star' is described as engaging, fast-paced, and entertaining, with a focus on character development and philosophical debates.
It is a logical necessity. His profession makes him feel like boss of all creation; when he sets foot dirtside he is slumming among the peasants. As for his sartorial inelegance, a man who is in unifo... - #8
Save:'Collected Poems' by W.B. Yeats is a comprehensive anthology of the poet's work, showcasing his evolution and growth as a writer. The collection features poems that delve into Irish legend and myth, as well as more modern and evocative pieces. Yeats is praised for his ability to approach emotions and situations in a subtle and authentic manner, dancing between pathos and authenticity. The anthology is described as thorough, well-organized, and a must-have for any student of Yeats' work.
- #9
Save:The Anubis Gates by Tim Powers is a historical fantasy novel that combines elements of time travel, ancient Egyptian magic, and eccentric characters set in 19th century London. The story follows Brendan Doyle, an academic who gets stranded in the past after agreeing to guide a group of time travelers to a lecture by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. As he navigates through a world filled with sorcerers, beggars, magicians, and supernatural threats, he becomes entangled in a complex plot involving Egyptian gods, body snatching, and a group of individuals attempting to alter history. The writing style of the book is described as engaging, quick-paced, and filled with rich historical details and folklore, creating a unique blend of genres and themes.
“In this flowing stream, then, on which there is no abiding, what is there of the things which hurry by on which a man would set a high price? It would be just as if a man should fall in love with one... - #10
Save:'Foundation's Edge' is the fourth installment in the Foundation series by Isaac Asimov. The story delves into the political games between the First and Second Foundations, with the protagonist Trevize embarking on a quest to find the elusive Second Foundation. As the plot unfolds, the book introduces the concept of other intelligences beyond the known universe and explores the manipulation of events by various factions. The writing style is described as a novel of ideas and concepts, focusing on the grand future history set out in the Seldon Plan.
Compor’s voice dropped and he said in a half-whisper, “Look, I don’t mind your talking like this to me, because I take it as just talk, but if you shout it out in crowds others will hear and, frankly,...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Foundation )
