Exhalation

Összefoglaló

'There are enough classic Chiang shorts to make the collection something special. "The Truth of Fact, the Truth of Feeling", about a near-future in which fallible human memory is superseded by searchable digital video... In "Anxiety Is the Dizziness of Freedom" it is possible, via a kind of quantum iPad, to interact with versions of ourselves who made different choices at crucial life moments, and are living with the consequences in a different timeline... "The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" is an intricate and delightful Arabian Nights-style yarn about a time gate; and the title story deftly creates an alien world, bounded by solid chromium, in which live touchingly thoughtful robotic creatures... Chiang at his best, and worth the price of admission on its own.' Guardian 'Reading this book felt like being seated at dinner with a friend, one who will explain the state of the sciences to you without an ounce of condescension, making you a participant in the knowledge.' New York Times 'Exhalation is a breath of fresh air... If there's an overarching theme, it's that we should take time to appreciate the miracle of existence and cherish the free will we have to pursue our destinies - while we still can.' Financial Times