Report to Megalopolis, or The Post-Modern Prometheus

Davies’s fourth journey to bucolic Arcadia and its technophilic sister world of Megalopolis (after The Lizard Princess) cleverly explores the motifs of Frankenstein, debating the presence of a soul in a created being. Aspern Grayling, an Arcadian expatriate and scientist, rails against the limitations of the society he grew up in and seeks to gain power within the advisory council of Megalopolis, aiming at eventual rulership over Arcadia itself. Grayling’s account is part sociological treatise contrasting the culture of imagination in Arcadia with the technological supremacy of Megalopolis, and part personal history of the conquering of Arcadia by his genetically engineered creation, Pavo Vale. The misogynistic unreliable narration skillfully highlights Davies’s true message of social balance, respect for family, and faith. Pavo’s rampage through Arcadian life, including rape, murder, and war, is explained but not excused by his lack of biological and emotional connection to other people, while his search for the key that provides Arcadia’s power gives the reader welcome reminders of the earlier books. SF fans will appreciate the intriguing perspective on a familiar theme. (Aug.)