WARNING -- MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS
Triplanetary
This is the "first" book in the
Lensman
series. I say first in quotes since this is a sort of retconned
first, since the series was originally serialized, and this volume
is evidently a prequel added in a later edition, and as such foreshadows
developments that were evidently a surprise in the original publication.
The book is divided into three sections. The first sets up the great
conflict between Civilization and Eddore, and includes
two classical episodes. The second section carries the conflict forward
to the twentieth century. The final section, the longest, sets the stage
for the remainder of the series by introducing the future history
context of the later Galactic Patrol. It is the tale of
Conway Costigan and company's abduction first by an Eddorian, and later
by Nevians, who provide humanities first FTL first contact, and first
FTL technology. This future history background is completed in the
next volume,
First Lensman
, which, with a narrative break, finishes the basic technological and
cultural development, and introduces Arisia and the Lens.
Quotes
"Of course," she said again, as steadily, thrilled this time to the depths
of her being by the sheer manhood of him who had thus simply voiced his
Code; a man of such fiber that neither love of life nor his infinitely greater
love for her could make him lower its high standard.
Clio Marsden (soon to be Costigan) reflecting on the decision to
attempt a rescue of Captain Bradley rather than escape without him.
Last read: 3/12/94.
Author
Last updated 8/31/95.
Douglas Stuart
Department of Computer Sciences
The University of Texas at Austin
dastuart@cs.utexas.edu