This World Is Taboo
Dec 2021 · Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
95
Pages
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About this ebook
In this story, the planet Weald 3 has vast stores of grain. The planet Dara is in a perpetual famine. The problem is with Dara's history—decades prior they had a planet-wide plague that passed along blue patches on skin on those people who contracted the virus, and thereby passed the anomaly to their decedents. To make matters more interesting, Weald 3 has an irrational and over-riding fear of contracting the virus from Dara. And now enter Doctor Calhoun and Mergatroyd to solve the problem. The following passages made my skin crawl with eerie parallels to today's world: "They had a plague on Dara, once. They're accused of still having it ready for export." The virus "only took hold of people in terribly bad physical condition . . ." ". . . if they do not cooperate in medical inspection . . . I can put your planet under quarantine and your space commerce will be cut off like that!" "When the blue plague appeared on the planet of Dara, fear struck nearby worlds. The fear led to a hate that threatened the lives of millions and endangered the Galactic peace." (Goodreads)
About the author
Murray Leinster, born William Fitzgerald Jenkins on June 16, 1896, in Norfolk, Virginia, is a towering figure in the annals of science fiction. Often hailed as the "Dean of Science Fiction," Leinster's prolific career spanned over five decades, during which he penned more than 1,500 short stories, novels, and scripts. His work is characterized by an uncanny ability to foresee technological advancements and their societal impacts, making him a visionary in speculative fiction.Leinster's 1945 short story "First Contact" is particularly notable for introducing the now-standard concept of the universal translator, a device that has since become a staple in science fiction lore. This story also tackled the complex theme of peaceful coexistence between different species, a revolutionary idea during the post-World War II era when fears of the "other" were rampant.A pioneer in the genre, Leinster was also a master of blending hard science with humanistic elements, making his stories resonate on both intellectual and emotional levels. His influence can be seen in the works of contemporary writers like Arthur C. Clarke and Isaac Asimov, who admired his ability to weave intricate plots with scientific plausibility.Despite his acclaim, Leinster was not without controversy. His 1956 story "The Ethical Equations" sparked debates about the moral implications of artificial intelligence, a topic that remains hotly contested today. His forward-thinking narratives often challenged societal norms, pushing readers to question the ethical dimensions of technological progress.Leinster's legacy is not just confined to his written work; he also made significant contributions to radio and television, scripting episodes for popular series like "The Shadow" and "Land of the Giants." His ability to adapt his storytelling across multiple media underscores his versatility and enduring relevance.In an era where science fiction continues to shape our understanding of the future, Murray Leinster's work remains a cornerstone, offering timeless insights into the human condition and the boundless possibilities of innovation.
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