Friday, September 8, 2017

Starlight Express, by Michael Swanwick

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(SF) Far in the future, Flaminio meets the love of his life when a woman steps through a matter transmitter that hasn’t worked for centuries. (3,687 words; Time: 12m)

Rating: ★★★☆☆

"Starlight Express," by (edited by C.C. Finlay), appeared in issue 09-10|17, published on by .

Mini-Review (click to view--possible spoilers)

Pro: Szette was an accidental creation, born of the transmitter, so it’s no surprise that she chooses to end her life by returning to it. The desperation of her situation comes though loud and clear.

Con: Why did they delay so long in telling Szette what her history was? Why didn’t she figure out for herself how far in the future she was?

Flaminio is little more than a puppet. His actions are compelled by the bracelet.

It’s hard to believe that in 10,000 years people will still be visiting the Pantheon and the Colosseum and speaking Italian. Or that Earth will have three moons.

Other Reviews: Search Web, Browse Review Sites (Issue 09-10|17)
Michael Swanwick Info: Interviews, Websites, ISFDB, FreeSFOnline

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2 comments (may contain spoilers):

  1. What a sad future. Favorite character was the Great Albino. Loved the cover art inspired by the story though.

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    Replies
    1. Yeah, the emotional impact in this one was so strong I was tempted to give it an extra star just for that. (That's always a temptation with any moving story.)

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