I must explain that the only other book I have read by Clark is Childhood's End, which turned me off enough to steer clear of him after that. Our basic philosophies differ. I think we both have a realistic view of the world (though TR would disagree that I do). We both see political upheaval, man's inhumanity to man (and woman), and our inability to get along with each other either as individuals or nations. But Clark's solution is an apocalyptic total reorganization of the basic human DNA. I'm more optimistic than he is. I love much of the world as it is and people as I know them. I see our having moments of great brilliance and goodness and am not willing to sacrifice that.
That said, after finishing 2001, A Space Odyssey, I must point out my much more complete understanding of the story than I had after the movie. Not only is the first scene with the monolith and the monkeys much clearer, along with the understanding of why HAL went nuts and the connection between the monolith on the moon and the space trip, but the ending with the baby is much clearer as well. I am not fond of the ending, but I do understand it. Don't get me wrong...many people would consider the ending of this and Childhood's End quite hopeful. Not me...they make me sad.
No comments:
Post a Comment