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The Long Tomorrow summary
Brief summary
The Long Tomorrow by Leigh Brackett is a thought-provoking science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where technology is feared and forbidden. It follows the journey of two young men as they seek a better future in a society ruled by anti-progress dogma.
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The Long Tomorrow
Summary of key ideas
Hope in a Post-Apocalyptic World
In The Long Tomorrow by Leigh Brackett, we are introduced to a world devastated by nuclear war. The story follows two young boys, Len and Esau, who are growing up in a small, agrarian community. Their society has regressed to a pre-industrial era, with a deep-seated fear of technology and large cities, which are believed to have caused the nuclear destruction.
The boys are curious and rebellious, and they are influenced by stories of a mythical city named Bartorstown, a place where technology is not feared but embraced. These stories plant the seed of hope in their hearts, and they dream of escaping their restrictive society to find this city, where they can live freely and without fear.
The Journey to Bartorstown
As Len and Esau grow older, their desire to find Bartorstown intensifies. They embark on a journey, leaving behind their families and everything they have ever known. Their quest is filled with challenges and dangers, as they encounter different societies with varying beliefs about technology and progress. Along the way, they are forced to confront their own fears and beliefs, and they begin to question the stories they have been told about Bartorstown.
Despite the obstacles, the boys continue their quest, driven by their shared dream of a better life. Their journey becomes a metaphor for the human spirit's unyielding hope and resilience, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
The Disillusionment and Return
After a series of setbacks, the boys finally reach Bartorstown, only to discover that it is not the utopia they had envisioned. Instead of a thriving city, they find a small, struggling community of scientists and engineers, who are trying to rebuild the world using the technology that had caused the apocalypse.
This disillusionment shatters Len and Esau's dreams, and they realize that there is no easy solution to the problems that plague their world. They return to their home, their journey having taught them the importance of balance and harmony between progress and caution, and the need to confront their fears rather than running from them.
The Aftermath
Back in their community, Len and Esau share their experiences, hoping to dispel the fear and superstitions that have held their society back. They recognize that the path to a better future lies not in rejecting technology, but in using it responsibly and with an understanding of its potential dangers.
In conclusion, The Long Tomorrow is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition in a post-apocalyptic world. It highlights the dangers of blind adherence to tradition and the importance of adapting to change. The story serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to learn from our past mistakes and approach the future with a balanced perspective.
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What is The Long Tomorrow about?
The Long Tomorrow is a thought-provoking science fiction novel by Leigh Brackett. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where technology is feared and suppressed, it follows the journey of two young boys who dream of a different future. As they set out on a quest for a fabled city where technology is embraced, they must confront their own beliefs and the harsh realities of the world they live in.
The Long Tomorrow Review
The Long Tomorrow (1955) by Leigh Brackett is a thought-provoking exploration of a post-apocalyptic world where technology is forbidden, forcing people to live in a pre-industrial society. Here's why this book is worth picking up:
- Full of dystopian themes and moral dilemmas, it challenges readers to reflect on the consequences of rejecting technological progress.
- With its rich world-building and vivid descriptions, it transports readers to a different reality, keeping them engaged from start to finish.
- The book's exploration of humanity and societal structures offers a unique perspective on the potential outcomes of extreme beliefs, ensuring a gripping and thought-provoking read.
Who should read The Long Tomorrow?
Science fiction enthusiasts who enjoy post-apocalyptic settings
Readers interested in exploring the impact of technology on society
Those who appreciate thought-provoking and philosophical themes in literature
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Book summaries like The Long Tomorrow
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The Long Tomorrow FAQs
What is the main message of The Long Tomorrow?
The main message of The Long Tomorrow explores the consequences of a rural society rejecting technological advancement.
How long does it take to read The Long Tomorrow?
Reading time for The Long Tomorrow varies but expect a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.
Is The Long Tomorrow a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Long Tomorrow is a thought-provoking read, showcasing the clash between progress and tradition. Definitely worth exploring.
Who is the author of The Long Tomorrow?
The author of The Long Tomorrow is Leigh Brackett.
What to read after The Long Tomorrow?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Long Tomorrow, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
- Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
- Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Judith L. Raiskin
- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher