“Perfect hexagonal tubes in a packed array. Bees are hard-wired to lay them down, but how does an insect know enough geometry to lay down a precise hexagon? It doesn't. It's programmed to chew up wax and spit it out while turning on its axis, and that generates a circle. Put a bunch of bees on the same surface, chewing side-by-side, and the circles abut against each other - deform each other into hexagons, which just happen to be more efficient for close packing anyway.”
In the aftermath of a catastrophic event known as Firefall, the world is left in ruins. The story follows a group of survivors as they navigate a harsh, changed landscape, facing both the physical challenges of the environment and the remnants of a collapsed society. The narrative explores themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. more
Peter Watts, born on January 25, 1958, is a renowned science fiction author known for his profound philosophical insights and unique science fiction settings. His works cover a range of themes including artificial intelligence, ecological disasters, and the future of humanity. more
“Wo men shi jie bai xiong di-we are more than brothers, Will.”
“If there is a life after this one, he said, let me meet you in it, James Carstairs.”
“And you should not be out and about in your nightgown. There are Lightwoods wandering these halls.”
“Better off dead than giving in; not taking what you want.”