Subject
Regression (Civilization) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Jack London
The Scarlet Plague
"The Scarlet Plague" by Jack London is a post-apocalyptic novel published in 1912. Set in 2073, sixty years after a devastating epidemic has nearly wiped out humanity, an elderly survivor travels with his primitive grandsons through the ruins of San Francisco. He recounts memories of civilization before the Red Death struck—a world of technology, knowledge, and social order—but struggles to make his grandsons understand a past that seems impossibly distant and unbelievable to them.
Richard Jefferies
After London; Or, Wild England
"After London; Or, Wild England" by Richard Jefferies is a speculative novel written during the late 19th century. The book imagines a future England transformed into a primitive world after civilization has collapsed and nature has reclaimed the land. The narrative explores themes of technology, society, and the natural world, showcasing characters such as Felix Aquila, who navigates this wild and unfamiliar landscape. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of post-apocalyptic England, describing how nature has overrun the landscapes once dominated by human civilization. It depicts a time when cities are forgotten, transformed into marshes, and domesticated animals have reverted to wild forms. The narrative presents a detailed account of the flora and fauna that have reclaimed the land, emphasizing the environmental changes that have led to a society that regresses into tribalism and barbarism. This transition sets the stage for the adventures of Felix Aquila and the encounters he faces in this new wild England.
Nelson S. Bond
The judging of the priestess
"The Judging of the Priestess" by Nelson S. Bond is a science fiction story written during the early 20th century. Set in the 35th century, the narrative follows Meg, a priestess of the matriarchal clan of Jinnia, as she returns home with Daiv, a man from a different tribe, after her pilgrimage to the "Place of the Gods." The book explores themes of gender roles and societal norms, focusing on Meg's dual judgment and the acceptance of her partner in a world where the roles of men and women are sharply defined. The plot unfolds as Meg and Daiv encounter various challenges, including the hostile reception from Meg's clan and the arrival of the Japcans, invaders with advanced weaponry. As tensions rise, Meg must reconcile her love for Daiv with her loyalty to her tribe and navigate the conflicts that arise from their differing beliefs. The story culminates in battles and personal revelations, leading to the eventual acceptance of a new order where men and women can coexist as equals, contrasting with the oppressively matriarchal society Meg initially inhabited. Ultimately, this tale is a testament to the evolution of societal norms and the potential for unity across gender divides.
Edward Shanks
The people of the ruins : $b A story of the English Revolution and after
"The People of the Ruins: A Story of the English Revolution and After" by Edward Shanks is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores tumultuous times in English history, likely during a revolutionary period, through the eyes of its main character, Jeremy Tuft. The opening sets the stage for Jeremy's personal struggles against a backdrop of broader societal upheaval, hinting at themes of conflict, adaptation, and the human experience during times of crisis. The beginning of the novel introduces Jeremy Tuft as he awakens disoriented in his London flat, reflecting on his life as a lecturer and his encounters with the onset of a significant strike. As he grapples with confusion and irritation at the absence of his charwoman, Mrs. Watkins, Jeremy's mundane concerns are interwoven with the political unrest brewing around him. The atmosphere quickly evolves as he observes the city in disarray, with print shops silent and streets eerily empty. When he ventures out, Jeremy witnesses the beginnings of violent chaos, including demonstrations and military presence, laying the groundwork for his harrowing experiences and the shifting realities he will face in the story.
Leigh Brackett
Thralls of the Endless Night
"Thralls of the Endless Night" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novella written in the early 1940s. The story explores themes of survival, betrayal, and the struggle for power in a post-apocalyptic setting. It features a conflict between two groups, the Hans and the Piruts, who vie for limited resources and grapple with the enigmatic Ship that harbors secrets essential for their survival. The narrative follows Wes Kirk, a young member of the Hans, who discovers a hidden path into the Ship while grappling with his feelings of anger and confusion after the death of his father. Tensions escalate as Wes forms an alliance with the Piruts to confront the oppressive Officers who hoard vital resources. Wes becomes embroiled in a power struggle, discovering that the Ship harbors not precious heat-stones but a much greater secret. As the storyline unfolds, elements of loyalty, love, and revenge are intertwined, culminating in a revelation about the Ship's true purpose, which forces both groups to reconsider their conflict as they confront a greater threat to their existence. Ultimately, Wes's journey highlights themes of unity and the human condition in dire circumstances.
Randall Garrett
Guardians of the Tower
"Guardians of the Tower" by Randall Garrett is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around a group of defenders known as the Guardians, who are tasked with protecting a mysterious Tower that holds significant value for the Free People against their envious enemies, the Wild Ones. The narrative explores themes of freedom, valor, and the essence of what it means to defend one's home. The plot follows Jon, a devoted Guardian, as he participates in a fierce battle to defend the Tower from an advancing enemy force led by a giant. Throughout the conflict, Jon fights valiantly alongside his comrades, witnessing devastation and loss. However, as the tide of battle turns and he finds himself alone against the giant, an unexpected twist occurs when one of the wounded Wild Ones opts to save him instead of claiming victory. This act of mercy leads to a pivotal shift, as the Wild One expresses a desire to join the Free People and understand their values of freedom and camaraderie. The story concludes with Jon and his new ally reflecting on the significance of the Tower as a symbol of liberty, emphasizing how the fight for freedom can forge unexpected bonds.
Cicely Hamilton
Theodore Savage: A Story of the Past or the Future
"Theodore Savage: A Story of the Past or the Future" by Cicely Hamilton is a novel written in the early 20th century." The story centers around Theodore Savage, who evolves from a complacent civil servant to a laborer caught in the turmoil of a world devastated by war, reflecting on his past life and the circumstances that have shaped him. In this narrative, Hamilton delves into themes of societal collapse and the human condition amid conflict. "The opening of the novel introduces us to Theodore Savage, a once-comfortable civil servant now adapting to a grim new reality wrought by war." As the story unfolds, Savage reflects on his earlier life of leisure and artistic appreciation, contrasting it with his current existence marked by toil and struggle alongside rough men. His introspection is abruptly interrupted by broader societal chaos as tensions escalate in the world outside his cabin. Through these reflections and observations, we see glimpses of his personal relationships, notably with Phillida Rathbone, his love interest, and the deteriorating political landscape that threatens their delicate world. This opening sets the stage for a deep exploration of how quickly civilization can unravel and how one must confront stark new realities.
C. C. MacApp
A Pride of Islands
"A Pride of Islands" by C. C. MacApp is a science fiction novel written in the late 1950s. The story unfolds in an otherworldly setting filled with fantastic creatures and strange customs, where the narrative is centered around the unique lives and adventures of clans that inhabit enormous beasts. The book explores themes of exploration, rivalry, and the quest for identity among its characters. The plot follows Alyarsmit and his friend Brusmit as they embark on a perilous journey to explore another giant beast belonging to a rival clan known as the jaksins. Driven by curiosity and a desire for adventure, the duo sneaks onto the jaksin beast, resulting in a series of unexpected and thrilling escapades, including the attempted abduction of two jaksin girls, Janee and Marisu. As the characters navigate their treacherous surroundings, they find themselves entangled with various creatures, a perilous encounter with a "Demon," and ultimately, a powerful Iron Fley, which they tame. In the end, their escapades test their friendships, challenge their bravery, and lead them to discover their true potential as they return home enriched by their experiences, both in knowledge and magical treasures.
Charles L. Fontenay
Conservation
"Conservation" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of technological regression and human survival in a post-apocalyptic Earth, where vast advancements in power and technology are present but largely unutilized. The story is set after a period of catastrophic warfare, presenting a society that has adopted stringent conservation measures to guard against potential threats while neglecting to fully harness their technological capabilities. The plot follows a crew led by Executive Officer John Gray as they return to Earth after a 258-year absence due to their mission to colonize a planet elsewhere in the galaxy. Upon landing, they encounter a military society that lives amidst advanced machinery yet chooses to use a rudimentary lifestyle reminiscent of earlier centuries. The crew grapples with local customs, governance, and a poorly understood legal system focused on conservation. As they uncover the motivations behind the society's apparent technological hostility, they learn that the Earth has been occupied and had a long struggle against alien invaders. Ultimately, their knowledge and skills from the Deneb III colony may offer a path to rebuilding Earth’s lost technological prowess and help restore a more sustainable future.
Roger D. Aycock
The Wheel is Death
"The Wheel Is Death" by Roger D. Aycock is a science fiction novella written in the late 1940s. The story explores themes of progress, the dangers of scientific advancement, and the consequences of ambition, set against a backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world where the remnants of humanity have forsaken technology to live in harmony with nature. The novella portrays a society that has outlawed the use of science and mechanization, illustrating a conflict between preserving this newfound peace and the human drive towards innovation. The narrative centers around Ortho, a young neophyte, and his encounter with the high priest Kaliz after the execution of his friend Gor Zan, who attempted to revive technological progress by creating a simple machine—a wheelbarrow. As they discuss the philosophy behind Gor Zan's actions and the society's rejection of technology, Kaliz explains the historical trajectory that led humanity to its current state, including a catastrophic event caused by technological warfare. The tension between the wisdom of living simply and the allure of technological advancement emerges sharply, culminating in the decision to destroy Gor Zan's creation, representing a deep-seated fear of humanity repeating its past mistakes.
Basil Wells
Fog of the Forgotten
"Fog of the Forgotten" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. This narrative explores themes of ancient civilizations, the fall of technological advancement, and the struggle between savagery and enlightenment. The story is set in a world shrouded in fog, both literally in its environment and metaphorically in the minds of its inhabitants who have turned against science and progress. The plot centers around Ho Dyak, an ivory-skinned man from a civilization that has regressed after a catastrophic downfall. Determined to recover the knowledge of their ancestors, he ascends from the fog-laden lowlands to the highlands where remnants of advanced technology linger. After discovering a crashed spaceship, Ho Dyak encounters new allies, including earthlings who possess knowledge of their ancient's technological prowess. Amidst lurking dangers from the priestly rulers of his people, Ho Dyak’s quest becomes a journey not only to reclaim lost knowledge but also to unite his people and rekindle their forgotten greatness, ultimately leading him to love and a revitalizing purpose for his race.
E. Hoffmann Price
Exile From Venus
"Exile From Venus" by E. Hoffmann Price is a science fiction novel likely written in the early to mid-20th century. The story follows Craig Verrill, a Venusian who reluctantly returns to the perilous and radioactive Earth, motivated by an impulsive promise and a quest for the legendary ruby known as the Fire of Skanderbek. The book explores themes of civilization versus savagery as it juxtaposes the orderly life under the domes of Venus with the chaotic existence of primitive Terrestrians. The narrative centers on Verrill's journey as he attempts to assert himself among the savage tribes of Earth after a quarrel over a ruby, leading to heroic adventures and unexpected bonds. After facing danger and navigating the treacherous relationships with the Terrestrians, Verrill saves the life of a child, impressing the local chief, Ardelan, and earning their respect. His growing connection to a Terrestrian woman named Falana complicates his original mission to steal the coveted ruby, ultimately leading to a climactic confrontation with an old rival, Gil Dawson. The book culminates as Verrill embraces his new life and fate among the Terrestrians, revealing profound transformations in character and values.
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