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Unearthing the Past in a Future World: A Review of Jack McDevitt’s Eternity Road

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Jack McDevitt’s Eternity Road, set in a post-apocalyptic future, is a novel that skillfully blends elements of science fiction and adventure. It offers a unique take on the genre, exploring themes of discovery, history, and the enduring nature of human curiosity.

Narrative and Style

Eternity Road takes place several centuries after a plague has wiped out most of humanity. The story follows a group of explorers in this future world, where remnants of our current civilization (referred to as the “Roadmakers”) have become enigmatic and awe-inspiring. The narrative centers around their quest to find a mythical place called Haven, believed to hold the knowledge of the ancient world.

McDevitt’s writing is clear and compelling, with a focus on building an immersive world. His descriptions of the remnants of our modern world, seen through the eyes of characters for whom these are mysterious artifacts, are particularly engaging. The story unfolds at a steady pace, balancing moments of action with deeper explorations of the characters’ discoveries and reactions.

Characters and Setting

The protagonist, Chaka Milana, is a strong, determined character, driving much of the story’s momentum. Her leadership and resilience make her a captivating figure in the narrative. Supporting characters, like the scholar Wayland and the enigmatic Avila, add depth and perspective to the story, each representing different aspects of this future society’s relationship with its past.

The setting is a character in itself, with the post-apocalyptic landscape providing a backdrop that is both haunting and full of wonder. McDevitt excels in portraying a world where the past is shrouded in mystery, and the remnants of our current civilization take on a mythical quality.

Themes and Symbolism

The novel deals heavily with the theme of history and memory. The quest for Haven symbolizes a deeper human need to understand and connect with the past. McDevitt raises intriguing questions about what gets remembered and valued by future generations.

Another significant theme is the nature of myth and legend. The story explores how facts can become distorted over time, turning history into mythology. This serves as a commentary on our own understanding of the past and how it shapes our present.

The journey itself is a metaphor for discovery and exploration, both literal and intellectual. The characters’ expedition mirrors the human drive to seek out new knowledge and understand our place in the world.

Originality: 4.5/5

Eternity Road is noteworthy for its original approach to post-apocalyptic fiction. Instead of focusing on survival in a broken world, it centers on the quest for knowledge and the mysteries of a lost civilization. This perspective is refreshing and adds a new dimension to the genre.

Thoughtfulness: 4.5/5

McDevitt’s novel is thoughtful and engaging, raising profound questions about history, knowledge, and the human spirit. The way the story interweaves these themes with a compelling narrative is a testament to his skill as a writer.

Entertainment: 4/5

The book is a compelling read, offering a mix of adventure, mystery, and speculative fiction. While it may lack the fast-paced action of some post-apocalyptic stories, its depth and the intrigue of its world more than make up for it.

Overall Rating: 4.33/5

In summary, Jack McDevitt’s Eternity Road is a captivating and thought-provoking novel. It stands out in the genre for its focus on the pursuit of knowledge and the mysteries of the past. The book offers a unique blend of adventure and speculative fiction, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

Explore the mysteries of a forgotten world with your copy of Jack McDevitt’s Eternity Road, available on Amazon.

Unraveling the Absurdity of Existence: A Review of Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s Apocalyptic Satire, Cat’s Cradle

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Cat’s Cradle, penned by the inimitable Kurt Vonnegut Jr., is a quintessential piece in the realm of apocalyptic fiction. This novel, distinguished by its satirical tone and imaginative storytelling, dives deep into themes of science, religion, and the absurdity of human nature.

Narrative and Style

Vonnegut’s narrative style in Cat’s Cradle is characterized by its simplicity and razor-sharp wit. The story is told through the first-person perspective of John, a writer initially intent on chronicling the day the atomic bomb was dropped. However, his journey takes a surreal turn, leading him to discover the fictional religion of Bokononism and the lethal substance Ice-Nine, capable of freezing all the water on Earth.

The narrative is fragmented, consisting of short, punchy chapters that contribute to the book’s fast-paced rhythm. Vonnegut masterfully balances dark humor with profound insights, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and deeply thought-provoking.

Characters and Setting

The characters in Cat’s Cradle are vividly drawn, each contributing to the novel’s exploration of themes. The protagonist, John, serves as a relatable everyman, navigating a world filled with absurdity and danger. Other notable characters include Felix Hoenikker, one of the fathers of the atomic bomb, and his children, who each possess a piece of Ice-Nine.

The fictional island of San Lorenzo provides a backdrop that is as quirky as it is critical to the story. It is a place where the ridiculous and the tragic coexist, mirroring the novel’s overarching commentary on human folly.

Themes and Symbolism

Cat’s Cradle is rich in themes and symbols. At its core, the novel is a critique of mankind’s blind faith in both science and religion. Vonnegut uses the invention of Ice-Nine and the religion of Bokononism to illustrate the dangers of pursuing knowledge and belief without considering the consequences.

The novel also delves into the absurdity of human existence. Vonnegut’s portrayal of a world teetering on the brink of self-destruction serves as a metaphor for the irrationality and self-destructive tendencies inherent in human nature.

Originality: 5/5

Cat’s Cradle is a shining example of Vonnegut’s originality. The novel breaks from conventional storytelling with its unique structure and blend of satire, science fiction, and philosophy. Its approach to tackling serious themes through humor and irony is both innovative and impactful.

Thoughtfulness: 5/5

Vonnegut’s ability to weave profound philosophical and ethical questions into a narrative that is both light-hearted and engaging is remarkable. Cat’s Cradle challenges readers to think deeply about the role of science and religion in society, the nature of human relationships, and the absurdity of the human condition.

Entertainment: 4.5/5

While the novel’s unconventional narrative might not appeal to all readers, Cat’s Cradle is undeniably entertaining. Its brisk pacing, memorable characters, and Vonnegut’s trademark wit make it a captivating read from start to finish.

Overall Rating: 4.83/5

In summary, Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. is a masterful blend of satire, science fiction, and social commentary. Its exploration of serious themes through a lens of absurdity and humor makes it not only a significant work of apocalyptic fiction but also a timeless critique of the human condition. Vonnegut’s novel is as relevant today as it was at the time of its publication, offering a unique and thought-provoking reading experience.

Discover the satirical genius of Kurt Vonnegut Jr. with your own copy of Cat’s Cradle, available here on Amazon.

Exploring the Depths of Invasion and Humanity: A Review of H.G. Wells’ Timeless Classic The War of the Worlds

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“The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells is a seminal work in the science fiction genre, masterfully blending imaginative storytelling with a haunting vision of a Martian invasion. Written in 1898, Wells’ novel was groundbreaking, not only for its innovative concept but also for its commentary on British imperialism and human vulnerability.

The narrative unfolds in Victorian England, thrust into chaos by the sudden arrival of technologically advanced Martians. Wells expertly crafts a tense and gripping story, narrated by an unnamed protagonist who witnesses the horrifying might and indifference of the invaders. The Martians, with their iconic tripod fighting machines and devastating heat-rays, embody a terror that is both fantastical and eerily plausible.

Character development in “The War of the Worlds” is subtle yet effective. The protagonist, a keen observer, offers insights into the varying reactions of people faced with unimaginable crisis – from paralyzing fear to selfless bravery. This focus on human responses rather than heroic exploits gives the novel a psychological depth, making it more than just an action-packed adventure.

Thematically, Wells delves into the human psyche, exploring themes of survival, the fragility of civilization, and the arrogance of humanity in the face of a superior force. His portrayal of the Martians as unstoppable conquerors serves as a stark critique of colonial attitudes prevalent in his time, making the novel profoundly thought-provoking.

Ratings:

  1. Originality: 5/5 – Wells’ vision of an alien invasion was innovative for its time, setting the foundation for much of modern science fiction.
  2. Thoughtfulness: 4.5/5 – The novel’s exploration of human nature and societal critique gives it a depth that transcends its genre.
  3. Entertainment: 4/5 – Its compelling narrative and suspenseful action make it a thoroughly engaging read.

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

“The War of the Worlds” remains a timeless classic, its themes as relevant today as they were over a century ago. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the origins of science fiction and a poignant reminder of the resilience and fallibility of humankind.

(Note: For those interested in this classic tale, consider using this Amazon affiliate link to purchase the book and support further book reviews.)

Winter Kill by Gene Skellig: An Apocalyptic Freeze

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“Winter Kill” by Gene Skellig is a captivating addition to the genre of apocalyptic fiction, striking a compelling balance between the bleakness of a world undone and the resilience of human spirit. Skellig’s narrative is set in a post-apocalyptic winter, a setting that is both chilling and metaphorically rich. The relentless cold serves as a constant antagonist, adding a layer of survivalist urgency to the plot.

The story follows a diverse cast of characters, each uniquely crafted to reflect the myriad ways people respond to catastrophic change. The protagonist’s journey is not just a physical one across a frozen wasteland but also an internal struggle, grappling with loss, hope, and the ethics of survival. Skellig excels in character development, ensuring that each individual’s arc feels authentic and integral to the story’s progression.

Thematically, “Winter Kill” delves into the nature of humanity when stripped of societal norms. The narrative probes questions about what it means to be human when the structures that define our morality are obliterated. Skellig’s writing is thoughtful, often pausing to ponder the philosophical implications of a world in ruin. This depth adds a layer of richness to the story, elevating it from mere survival tale to a contemplative exploration of human nature.

Visually, the book’s scenes are vividly described, painting a stark yet beautiful picture of a world encased in ice. Skellig’s use of imagery is both haunting and captivating, making the reader feel the biting cold and the oppressive weight of an endless winter.

Ratings:

  1. Originality: 4/5 – While post-apocalyptic settings are not novel, Skellig’s focus on a perpetual winter landscape offers a fresh take on the genre.
  2. Thoughtfulness: 4.5/5 – The book shines in its philosophical depth and the moral complexities it navigates.
  3. Entertainment: 4/5 – The narrative is engaging and well-paced, keeping the reader invested in the characters’ fates.

Overall Rating: 4.17/5

“Winter Kill” is a compelling read for fans of apocalyptic fiction, offering a unique setting, deep character exploration, and thought-provoking themes. It’s a testament to Skellig’s skill as a storyteller that the book manages to be both an exciting survival story and a meditation on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.

(Note: For readers interested in purchasing “Winter Kill,” consider using this Amazon affiliate link to support further book reviews.)

Unraveling the Tension of the Cold War: Trinity’s Child by William Prochnau

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In the realm of apocalyptic fiction, few books capture the harrowing realism and psychological intensity of nuclear brinkmanship quite like William Prochnau’s “Trinity’s Child.” This novel, a masterful blend of political thriller and apocalyptic narrative, plunges the reader into the depths of Cold War-era fears and the shadow of nuclear war.

Plot and Narrative

The story unfolds with a gripping immediacy, revolving around a fictional nuclear crisis between the United States and the Soviet Union. Prochnau, with his background in journalism, brings a meticulous attention to detail that lends the narrative an almost disturbing authenticity. The plot navigates through various corridors of power, from the Pentagon to the White House, immersing the reader in a world where the unthinkable is on the brink of becoming reality.

Central to the narrative is the protagonist, Major Jake Dillon, who is thrust into a situation far beyond his control. Dillon’s character is expertly crafted, embodying the conflict between duty and moral uncertainty. Prochnau’s ability to delve deep into the psyche of his characters, particularly Dillon, elevates the story from mere political speculation to a profound exploration of human nature under extreme stress.

Themes and Insights

“Trinity’s Child” is more than a story about nuclear war; it’s a meditation on the fragility of civilization and the thin line that separates order from chaos. Prochnau skillfully weaves themes of power, responsibility, and the human cost of political gamesmanship. His insights into the bureaucratic and political mechanisms behind such a crisis are not only enlightening but also chillingly relevant, even decades after the novel’s initial publication.

The book also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of technological advancement unmoored from ethical considerations. It challenges the reader to consider the moral implications of power, both in the hands of individuals and nations.

Rating System

  1. Originality: 4/5
    “Trinity’s Child” stands out for its realistic portrayal of a nuclear crisis. While the theme of nuclear war is not new in apocalyptic fiction, Prochnau’s background and the detailed exploration of political and military strategies bring a fresh perspective.
  2. Thoughtfulness: 5/5
    The novel excels in its depth of writing and the meaningful exploration of its themes. Prochnau’s insightful treatment of his subject matter makes this book not just a story, but a reflection on the human condition.
  3. Entertainment: 4.5/5
    Engaging and thought-provoking, the book keeps the reader hooked with its fast-paced narrative and realistic portrayal of events. It’s a compelling read that balances intellectual depth with the thrill of a political drama.

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

“Trinity’s Child” by William Prochnau is an essential read for fans of apocalyptic fiction and political thrillers alike. It is a book that not only entertains but also invites reflection on the profound questions of power, morality, and the survival of humanity.

Discover “Trinity’s Child” Here

Red Alert by Peter Bryant

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“Red Alert” by Peter Bryant is an intense foray into the cold, calculating world of nuclear brinkmanship, set during the peak of the Cold War. Bryant’s narrative is a chilling exploration of the political and military machinations that could lead to global annihilation.

The apocalypse type in “Red Alert” is a potential nuclear war, a theme that Bryant handles with a tension-filled and meticulous approach. The story unfolds like a high-stakes chess game, where each move could either prevent or precipitate a global catastrophe. The detailed depiction of military and political strategies adds a layer of realism to the narrative, making the threat feel palpably real.

Bryant’s tone is taut and suspenseful, masterfully capturing the razor’s edge balance between peace and global destruction. The characters, primarily military and political figures, are portrayed with a depth that goes beyond their roles in this grand chess game. Their internal conflicts, fears, and motivations add a human element to the otherwise clinical proceedings of strategic warfare.

For entertainment value, “Red Alert” is a compelling read, especially for those intrigued by military strategy and political intrigue. The book keeps readers on the edge of their seats, not with action-packed sequences, but with the intense psychological drama of near-apocalyptic scenarios.

“Red Alert” is a gripping novel that offers a stark reminder of the thin line between peace and global disaster during the Cold War. For those interested in delving into this tense narrative, the book is available for purchase Here.

A New Look at The Road

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In the desolate landscape of Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road,” we traverse a post-apocalyptic world that is as haunting as it is harrowingly beautiful. The novel, a masterpiece of apocalyptic fiction, takes us on a journey through a land ravaged by an unspecified cataclysm. The story is centered around a father and son, traveling towards the coast, hoping for a better future amidst the ashes of the old world.

The starkness of McCarthy’s prose mirrors the barrenness of the landscape, a world where the remnants of civilization lie in ruins. The author masterfully crafts an environment where the silence is as profound as the desolation, and every breath of the wind carries a tale of lost hope and enduring love. This journey is not just a physical one but also a deep exploration into the human spirit, testing the limits of endurance, morality, and the unbreakable bond between parent and child.

The Road’s apocalyptic setting is not defined by the usual tropes of nuclear fallout or alien invasions. Instead, it’s a hauntingly realistic portrayal of a world where the rules of society have disintegrated, leaving only the instinct to survive. The tone of the story is grim, yet it’s punctuated with moments of tender warmth, serving as a poignant reminder of what it means to be human in the face of overwhelming despair.

The entertainment value in “The Road” lies not in action-packed sequences or thrilling plot twists, but in its profound emotional depth and the beauty of its sparse, poetic language. It’s a book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page, a testament to McCarthy’s prowess as a storyteller.

In our accompanying image, we capture the essence of “The Road.” The long, empty road stretching into a horizon overshadowed by dark clouds encapsulates the journey’s ceaseless uncertainty and the faint glimmer of hope that drives our protagonists forward. The abandoned cars and barren trees, set against a backdrop of muted browns and greys, evoke the omnipresent sense of loss and the stark reality of survival in a world that has lost its color.

For readers intrigued by “The Road,” you can delve into this journey Here Be prepared for a read that is as emotionally challenging as it is rewarding, a true masterpiece in the genre of apocalyptic fiction.

October Surprise # 2

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I was looking through some of my old posts and noticed a brief commentary on the time leading up to the last election that I called “October Surprise” (link) and thought that I would revisit the topic four years later. After all, we are coming up on another big election and will likely see widespread civil unrest regardless of the results. So far, this year has played out as a slow motion work of apocalyptic fiction. The pandemic has really shown some of the problems associated with the globalization of civilization and we are starting to see some cracks. While COVID-19 does not seem to be nearly as deadly as some of the fictional viruses that we have reviewed here on this site such as in Brushfire Plague by R.P. Ruggiero or George Stewart’s Earth Abides it is certainly causing widespread disruption.

I feel like I’ve read this book before. It starts off a bit slow with a novel virus that sweeps the world. What the virus lacks in widespread lethality, it makes up for in its contagion and its ability to disrupt and divide people around the world. Naturally, the protagonist in this story is ex-special forces. He starts out on team “hoaxer” but he starts to take it more seriously when one of his friends dies from the virus. Eventually, he decides to retreat with his family to their isolated and well stocked bug out location just before the shit hits the fan. Economies subsequently collapse under the strain of endless shutdowns and restrictions. Civil unrest ensues. Blame is passed around between already hostile superpowers. Of course, a world war erupts. Sure it starts off conventionally, but eventually it escalates to the use of nukes. We have plenty of variables to provide twists and turns along the way to impending doom. Heck, maybe we could even have some follow-up post apocalypse stories exploring the “aftermath”. Maybe even a short romantic episode between characters to maintain the attention of a wider audience demographic. Throw in some religious fanatics, a few sociopaths and it’s a winner!

Anyway, as the line between apocalyptic fiction and reality blurs in the coming months, many of us will maintain our normalcy bias, insisting that the worst case scenario is impossible. No doubt, these same people would have considered the prospect of mandatory face masks in public during a pandemic pure fear mongering. How many of these people now have face masks hanging from their rear view mirror for their short stops to the drug store or post office? As if a dirty, virus covered cloth mask that has been used for months has any remaining protective qualities. Judging from the way that people have reacted to COVID-19 both on a macro and micro level, I have very serious doubts about our prospects for long term survival (like I didn’t have enough doubts already!).

To anyone reading this I wish you the very best of luck in the coming months/years. I would love to have an opportunity to come back here four years from now to reflect on my paranoid world ending fears and the next October surprise. In the meantime, I hope to make a few posts about some apocalyptic fiction books that I have completed recently. Do something for your “just in case” plan today. You might be really happy someday that you planned ahead for bad scenarios no matter how unlikely you feel they might come to fruition.

man wearing gas mask standing beside store facade

Guest Post From Emily at The Road Virus theroadvirus.com

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I’m excited to introduce our next guest post from Emily at The Road Virus. Emily contacted me in regards to a very cool project that her and a friend are starting and I was instantly interested in the concept. The Road Virus is on a mission to share and exhibit some of the best fringe literature available (which includes some of our favorite post-apocalyptic stories). Thank you Emily for sharing The Road Virus with us and we wish you all the best of luck in your adventures! I encourage all of you to support The Road Virus in any way you can. Follow them on social media and share the links with your friends. Thanks!

trv-bus-logo-stickerIt began as a wistful conversation about how awesome it would be to open a bookstore between two best friends. We’ve always been book lovers, one of us was a librarian (Em), the other is an author (Sade). But it was impossible in outrageously expensive San Francisco, and that’s when we started joking about mashing together the concept of a tiny home – like a bus or boat or rv – and bookstore. And so germinated The Road Virus, a mobile bookstore dedicated to fringe literature like horror, apocalyptic lit, sci-fi, queer studies & fiction, and fantasy.

We purchased a bus, retired and revamped into a library’s bookmobile, then set out to pasture before being purchased by us to make her into a big, rolling bookstore. She’s been kitted out with generator already so she runs 110V, both the gennie and motor are diesel and we plan on swapping her over to veggie oil and solar asap. She’s also got book shelves installed that are built like a bomb shelter – truly – we had to remove two small shelves to make space for our beds to fit, and had a KILLER time doing so because the materials were so durable, and construction was impeccable. We can climb the shelves like a ladder and they do not budge.

TheRoadVirusNaturally the first things put into her were our mobile preps, 72 hour bug out bags, first aide kits, solar and crank powered lights and radios, extra bottles of all fluids the bus needs (like fuel additive, coolant, quick start spray, etc), and about a week’s worth the dry/canned goods. We’re not getting stranded if the bus breaks down, zombies rise up, solar flare or EMP takes out all electronic devices!

Along with our preps we’re bringing our books, naturally. Some of our favorites are The Road, The Stand, Lucifer’s Hammer, How We Live Now, Dies the Fire, Desperation, and I Am Legend. Em’s surprise favorite is The Last Tribe by Brad Manuel, a global pandemic EOTWAWKI novel that was self published by the author. It follows the few survivors of the plague – specifically one family – trying to reunite with one son who was away at boarding school in the Northeast. As someone who grew up in Massachusetts (where a lot of the book is set), the idea of trying to survive a winter as a young teen while things like heating, plumbing, sanitation break down is enough to send a chill down Em’s spine.

theroadvirusposterThere’s lots left to do in the bus, whom we’ve named Jolene Lenore Freebird – including installing plumbing, propane cooktop, and tanks so she can either be shored at a park, or go off-grid without losing the basics of a home. We also need to have her vinyl wrapped so our store is recognizable, and she has some work that needs to be done on her electrical system. We’ve launched a Kickstarter campaign to help us achieve these goals – along with help us do some really awesome programming to help The Road Virus give back to the communities she visits, like literacy outreach, movie screenings, and a little free library. Please consider backing us – and bring the plague of literacy to a community near you!

Read more about our vision and goals for The Road Virus at our Kickstarter here:
theroadvirus.com/ks 

Also, check out my friend’s earthquake preparedness site Earthquakebag.me . They’ve got some great kits for those of us living in earthquake prone areas.

We’re also documenting our journey, and telling folks where they can find us via our website here:
theroadvirus.com

You can also reach us on all social media as @roadvirusbus
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Love and Pathogens,
The Road Virus Crew

Guest Post by Danny Stevenson Post Apocalyptic Model Maker and Tabletop Wargamer

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This guest post is from Danny Stevenson, the founder of the Post Apoc Wargames Forum, a post apocalyptic model maker and wargamer, he especially loves to play CS:GO and he´s always on the site mycsgoboosting.com. Danny posted a comment on Twitter in response to Evan T Pickering’s guest post, describing how he related to the notion of rebirth and rebuilding after the apocalypse. The idea of post apocalyptic rebirth resonated with Danny, so I asked him if he would write a guest post to carry on that theme. He has created some really awesome post apocalyptic models that he displays on his blog here and I’ve posted some images below. Thank you to Danny for sharing his thoughts and insights!

model2Rebirth after the Apocalypse? This is a question a few people have asked me when they see or read my work.

Chatting to many people down the years, many people associate the Apocalypse with whole scale death and destruction. That this is it. Nothing more. Any remaining humans are reduced to scavenging savages. They seem surprised that in the world I created humanity is slowly trying to rebuild. Looking to recover. Rebuilding from the ashes and anarchy.

For me, one of the joys of the Post Apocalyptic genre is the ability to explore and create new societies with freedom. The destruction of what was removes the existing rules. Some of the societies that I have created are realistic in nature, others are real life in a satirical way and some are purely for fun.

tarotdeathIn the Tarot, the death card doesn’t mean just death and destruction. It can mean change or a new way of looking at things. From this death, change follows rebirth and growth. It happens again and again around us every day in every aspect of our lives. The Apocalypse is in many ways the death card for the whole planet.

Looking at the past, it is clear that our dear old planet has survived many apocalyptic events in one form or another. Mother Nature springs back. Life clings on and becomes abundant once again. Often these apocalyptic events remove one dominate life form and allows other (often weaker) life forms to flourish and survive.

Recovery of nature is essential for rebirth after an apocalyptic event. The process could take anything from a few years to centuries. Once the recovery of nature starts it will help support plant and animal life. These in turn will help any human societies starting to form.

What about the plant and animal life? Would an apocalyptic event destroy them all? Have any of the other apocalyptic events in history? Massive amounts of species were wiped out but many survived. When you look at our world, animal life is everywhere, even places that appear barren and dead. Once the spark of life is there it will fight to hang on. Look at the area around Chernobyl. The area was evacuated when the disaster happened. It was heavily contaminated. In less than twenty years plant and animal life has returned to all but the most contaminated areas.

model4The last piece of our jigsaw puzzle is humanity. When you view a single human and compare them to similar sized animals, humans have no natural weapons, armour or fur. We often have poorer vision, no night vision, poorer hearing, slower movement and little sense of smell. Our success lies in our adaptability, ability to work together and use tools. We instinctively come together as groups and work together. We can build things to help our survival. These instincts won’t go away in times of adversity but often are strengthened.

History provides us with plenty of clues about how humanity can come back from the brink. The main difference is that now some humans would have access to knowledge, weapons and tools from the modern age. These may give our survivors more of a edge.

model1One thing that takes people aback is in my settings the new societies are often rebuilding. I find it odd that people wouldn’t consider it. After all mankind is a builder. Maybe my real life job as an Engineer has coloured my view. In my experience there will always be someone who can fix, repair and build things. I have met many amazing individuals who despite no formal education can fix anything and build amazing looking vehicles. Not all knowledge would be lost. There will be people with things rattling around in their heads. Things that may help your group of survivors rebuild.

The Apocalypse brings death and destruction. It brings great change which in turn triggers rebirth of the post apocalyptic world . Of course the Apocalypse may allow a new rival to evolve to claim the top of the pile and push humanity into history.

Danny Stevenson

http://mattblackgodsworld.blogspot.co.uk/

@wastesrider on Twitter

Post Apoc Wargames Forum

model3

 

 

October Surprise

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squirrelDoom is in the air this fall. Wait…wasn’t it in the air last year?…and the year before that?

It seems as though Autumn is the “doom” time of year. Perhaps humans have coexisted with the rise and fall of seasons for so long now that we sense the death and destruction that comes with winter on an almost instinctual level. Isn’t it possible that we transpose this sense of impending doom onto our world view. That is to say, our perception may have a built in doom filter this time of the year.

Going hand in hand with sense of impending doom is our nesting, preparation tendency that seems to come forth in the fall. Our harvest is in and it is time to secure and preserve our resources for the long winter. As much as we’d like to believe that we exist apart from nature, we are clearly “hardwired” to our environment in more ways than we realize.

Of course, this could all be learned behavior, instilled in us from our childhood. How many of us watched our mothers pickling, canning, freezing and preserving the bounty of the summer’s garden? My mother always likened fall preparation to squirrels burying nuts for the winter, hence the term “squirrelling away” in my family.

No doubt, these nesting behaviors have been passed down many generations and it is most likely the reason that we are alive today. It wasn’t that long ago when the seemingly simple task of eating involved a great deal of planning and effort. Dinner wasn’t a simple matter of going to the nearest grocery store or restaurant for our predecessors.

Once again this fall we are hearing the term “October Surprise” all over the mainstream media and through a lot of alternative sources as well. While the term has its roots in the idea that newly released information could influence a US November presidential election, it has taken on a broader meaning in recent years to include all types of devastating scenarios ranging from economic collapse to World War 3.

Not to understate this particularly chaotic and tumultuous time in history, but having witnessed a few periods of doom frenzy, I’m not convinced that this upcoming period is any different. My sense is that a large scale events occur when we least expect them. Then again, who knows? More than likely we will have some time left to enjoy our strange apocalyptic preoccupation. Speaking of which, I have a few guest posts coming up that I’m sure you will enjoy! 

t2fire

Calling All Apocalyptic Bloggers, Writers and Enthusiasts!

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helpwantedCalling all apocalyptic bloggers and writers!

Doomers unite!

Write a guest post for us about your favorite apocalyptic fiction and we will add you to our blogroll and you can post all of your contact and website information along with your article. That includes all of your social media links.

Ideally, your post would be about 500 words and would be related to some work of apocalyptic fiction that you are passionate about. It could also be some type of fiction that inspired you to be more “prepared” for large scale disasters, wars and that type of thing.

Additionally, if you are an author, you could write an article about your book, what inspired you, that sort of thing. Naturally, you could link to your book, interviews, whatever is pertinent. 

Please reply to this post or contact me at apocalypticfiction@gmail.com or through Twitter @apocalypticfict . Thanks!

Divide and Conquer

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Divide and conquer. An organization of any type is greatly weakened when it is divided. When a group of people, whatever size, does not share a common goal, cohesiveness is lost. Logically, an enemy seeks to further divide such a group by emphasizing differences and minimizing similarities.divide_conquer-228x228

Consider the simple concept of divide and conquer when applied to the current situation in the US. With so many so called “leaks” emerging during this presidential election, it seems likely that the public is under the spell of a massive manipulation effort on a scope that has never been seen before in history. 

This is truly a “can’t see the forest for the trees” moment in history. While the identity of the attacker is unclear (at least to most of us), it seems obvious that an ongoing effort of some type is underway. A divide and conquer strategy has been implemented. Using the tools of this “networked” age, a steady stream of manipulative information is sent to our smart devices for consumption.

Perhaps this is a strange post for an apocalyptic fiction web site but it occurred to me that the early stages of World War 3 might be a bit more subtle than we anticipated.

 

Reminders

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“The Fire is coming! Get to the shelter!” The basement shelter vaguely resembles some places where I have lived but always expands into a much larger and more complex space. Looking through a small window, just above ground level, I can see the fire rolling over land, engulfing everything in its path. More vivid and detailed than the best Hollywood cgi effects, the image is etched into my mind. I can hear someone yelling, telling me to get back from the window but I am transfixed. Just as I begin to wake up to leave this place I begin to consider the implications of ‘radiation’ in some type of ‘mental’ image.

Dreams of the apocalypse have haunted me for as long as I can remember. After a fairly significant hiatus from apocalyptic type fiction (as is reflected in the obvious neglect of this site), I’m back here pondering the significance of my horribly vivid dreamworld. The dreams serve as reminders of some type. 

Rationally, who would want to willingly fuel a dark preoccupation with the end of civilization and death with fictional depictions of such? It is as if I am seeking out some meaning in the expressive imaginations of other people.

Certainly, one could argue that the apocalyptic entertainment that I have fed my brain over the years rattles around up there and is occasionally expressed in dreams. But how did I have these types of dreams before I was ever even exposed to the concept? 

Collective subconscious, archetypal imprints? I really don’t know. I suppose I’ll just throw it to the internet wasteland, the pyramids of our age that will disappear into thin air leaving no trace for archeologists of the next great civilization. How many different incarnations on Earth alone? Unknowable, at least at my pitiful level of awareness.

It’s Not the End of the World Yet…

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Well, it’s been a busy year and I wanted to write a quick post regarding my intention to resume activity on this site. I’ve been preoccupied with a couple of other projects and just ‘staying afloat’, in general, but I am going to make an effort to get caught up on my reading list and reviews. I apologize to those of you that have been waiting for me to review your books and will pick up where I left off. 

Fortunately, it’s not the end of the world yet, so we likely have more time to enjoy this twisted apocalyptic preoccupation. From the recent ebola scare to the ‘saber rattling’ that is reminiscent of the Cold War era, we’ve seen plenty of ‘real world’ activity that will continue to fuel a strong demand for apocalypse related fiction. Keep the review requests coming!