Plot summary, "The Gods Themselves" by Isaac Asimov in 12 Minutes
"The Gods Themselves" is a science fiction novel written by Isaac Asimov, first published in 1972. It's divided into three parts, each exploring different aspects of a complex interstellar relationship between humans and beings from a parallel universe.
The story unfolds in a future where humans have discovered a cheap, limitless source of energy called "electron pump." However, it is soon revealed that this process has potentially disastrous consequences for the universe. The narrative is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct focus and set of characters.
1. In the first part, titled "Against Stupidity...", Asimov introduces us to a physicist named Frederick Hallam, who discovers that the electron pump is causing the gradual decay of the sun. He teams up with a skeptical colleague, Peter Lamont, and an enigmatic alien being named Dua, who hails from a parallel universe with different physical laws. Together, they try to find a solution to prevent the sun's destruction.
2. The second part, titled "...The Gods Themselves...", delves deeper into the society of the parallel universe, focusing on the perspectives of the aliens known as the "Soft Ones." They have their own societal and biological peculiarities, and through their interactions with humans, Asimov explores themes of cultural exchange and misunderstanding.
3. The final part, "Contend in Vain?", brings together characters from both universes as they attempt to address the crisis facing their respective worlds. It culminates in a risky plan that involves transferring energy between universes to stabilize the sun.
As with many of Asimov's works, "The Gods Themselves" delves into scientific concepts while also exploring complex social and ethical dilemmas. It's a thought-provoking exploration of the consequences of scientific advancement and the potential for cooperation and conflict between different intelligent species.
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