Machine Stops, The (version 2)

By Forster, E. M.

Book Id: WPLBN0002953288
Format Type:
File Size: 37.64 MB
Reproduction Date: 2009

Title:	Machine Stops, The (version 2)
Author:	Forster, E. M.
Volume:
Language:	English
Subject:	Fiction, Science fiction, Short stories
Collections:	Audio Books Collection, Machine Stops, The (version 2)
Historic Publication Date:	1909
Publisher:	LibriVox Audio Books


Citation APA MLA Chicago M. Forste, B. E. (1909). Machine Stops, The (version 2). Retrieved from http://gutenberg.us/

Description
Published in 1909, this science fiction short story takes place in a future where mankind, seemingly no longer able to survive on earth's surface, exists in a vast underground civilization known as The Machine. Each individual lives in an isolated, fully-automated cell-like room, connected to global information and communication systems, but cut off from all direct experience. The narrative focuses on Vashti, an advanced mother whose total dependence upon The Machine has led her (like most others) to increasingly reverence and even worship it; and her untechnological son, Kuno, who has begun to deny The Machine's omnipotence and even seeks to escape if possible. Kuno's radical views are validated as the The Machine's systems begin to malfunction and eventually fail completely. The story has proved to be far ahead of its time, with remarkably accurate predictions of modern technologies, and paints a chilling picture of over-dependence on them. This recording marks the 100th anniversary of the original publishing. (Summary by Jerome Lawsen)

Summary
Electronic recorded live performance of a reading

Excerpt
Science fiction, Short stories