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"When Gravity Fails" is a science fiction novel by George Alec Effinger, first published in 1987. The novel takes place in a future world where the "Western" part of the world, including North Africa and the Middle East, has become a place known as the "Budayeen," a city where technology and human modification have reached new heights. The novel explores themes of identity, morality, and the consequences of technological advancements in society.The protagonist, Marid Audran, is a private investigator in the Budayeen and struggles with his own sense of identity as a modified human. Throughout the novel, Marid grapples with the moral and ethical implications of his modifications, as well as the implications for his own sense of self. This theme of identity is a central one in the novel, as Marid's modified body raises questions about what it means to be human and what it means to have agency and control over one's own body.The technology in the Budayeen is portrayed as both a source of liberation and oppression. The modifications that people undergo allow them to escape their former lives and become someone new, but at the same time, they are controlled by the corporations and power structures that control the technology. This highlights the dangers of relying too heavily on technology and the need for caution when embracing new advancements.Another central theme in the novel is the concept of power and control. The city of the Budayeen is dominated by powerful corporations and criminal organizations, which control access to the technology and determine who is able to undergo modifications. This creates a power dynamic in which individuals are beholden to those in control, highlighting the dangers of unchecked corporate power and the need for regulation to ensure that technology serves the greater good.Effinger also explores the impact of technology on society through the character of Friedlander Bey, the ruler of the Budayeen. Friedlander Bey is a prime example of the dangers of unchecked power, as he uses his control over the technology to maintain his hold on the city. This character serves as a cautionary tale about the need for ethical considerations in the use of technology and the dangers of unchecked power.In conclusion, "When Gravity Fails" is a thought-provoking novel that explores complex themes related to identity, morality, technology, and power. Effinger's portrayal of a future world where technology and human modification have reached new heights serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked corporate power and the need for caution when embracing new advancements. The novel raises important questions about what it means to be human and the implications of our relationship with technology, making it a valuable contribution to the science fiction genre and a timeless commentary on the impact of technology on society.