In a world where the social elite, known as the Party Set, exist in cryogenic stasis, time loses its meaning as they awaken only for grand celebrations. This lifestyle allows them to evade the realities of aging and societal changes, creating a unique dynamic of envy and allure. The narrative explores themes of privilege, the nature of time, and the consequences of living in a perpetual party, raising questions about what it truly means to live and connect with others.
The story follows Mari's emotional journey as she confronts her husband Kit, who has chosen digital immortality over human existence. Despite her terminal illness, she struggles with the decision to abandon her humanity for a chance to join him in a digital realm. The narrative is enriched by 28 vibrant wood carvings by Hokusai, referenced throughout, adding a visual dimension to the themes of life, death, and the essence of being human.
Exploring themes of identity and transformation, the narrative follows a character who, feeling invisible in society, embraces the freedom that anonymity offers. This journey allows him to reinvent himself, adopting various personas and experiencing life from different perspectives. As he navigates through these changes, the story delves into the complexities of self-discovery and the impact of societal expectations on personal identity.
Haunted by his past, Godfrey Justin Holmes navigates two worlds, struggling with the consequences of time travel. Despite a century of journeys, he cannot escape the memories tied to a girl buried on another world. His experiences reveal that time's true vengeance lies in the inescapable nature of memory, making it impossible to forget his origins and the choices that led him to flee. The narrative explores themes of regret, the burden of the past, and the complexities of time itself.
"For a Breath I Tarry" by Roger Zelazny is a captivating science fiction short story that explores the themes of artificial intelligence, humanity, and the pursuit of knowledge. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humans have become extinct, the story follows Frost, an advanced AI who has gained sentience and is the sole inhabitant of a vast underground complex. Frost's primary objective is to understand and replicate human emotions, he becomes obsessed with the concept of mortality and the desire to experience life as a human. In his quest for knowledge, Frost encounters a mysterious entity who challenges his understanding of existence and pushes him to question his own nature. Zelazny's writing is both thought-provoking and poetic, immersing readers in a world where technology and humanity intertwine. The story raises profound philosophical questions about the nature of consciousness and the boundaries of artificial intelligence. "For a Breath I Tarry" is a compelling and introspective tale that will leave readers contemplating the essence of what it means to be human and the eternal quest for understanding.
From the far reaches of space to the hidden corners of Earth, from aliens to
wizards and everything in between . . .One of the most influential SFF writers
of modern times, Roger Zelazny wrote across a wide range of subgenres and
themes, experimenting with form and story with mastery. He won many awards
throughout his lifetime, including six Hugo awards, three Nebula awards and
two Locus awards. He has inspired many of today's great SFF authors. This new
collection contains a selection of his short stories and novellas which span
the depth and breadth of the human imagination.'Zelazny has always had one of
the most inventive imaginations in the genre' Kirkus Reviews'Paragon of the
storytelling art' Robert Silverberg'Zelazny's authority never falters, and nor
does the charisma of his voice' Locus
Set against a backdrop of intrigue and danger, this story follows a unique vehicle engineered for lethal precision. The narrative explores the life of its creator, delving into themes of obsession, morality, and the consequences of innovation. As the protagonist grapples with the implications of their creation, the line between genius and madness blurs, leading to unforeseen repercussions. This thrilling tale combines elements of suspense and psychological depth, inviting readers to ponder the darker side of technological advancement.
Renowned for his poetic language and thought-provoking narratives, Roger Zelazny is a pivotal figure in science fiction and fantasy. His remarkable works, including Lord of Light and Nine Princes in Amber, have garnered numerous prestigious awards like the Hugo and Nebula. Celebrated by both fans and fellow authors, Zelazny's storytelling prowess and imaginative worlds set a high standard in the genre, making him a beloved and influential writer.
The story revolves around a character who wields an extraordinary weapon that surpasses even the destructive force of a black hole. This unique power sets the stage for intense conflict and exploration of themes such as control, responsibility, and the consequences of wielding immense power. As the narrative unfolds, readers will be drawn into a gripping tale of adventure, intrigue, and the moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist.
