Comet's Burial By: Raymond Z. Gallun (1911-1994)
Comet's Burial by Raymond Z. Gallun is an enigmatic science fiction novel that explores the depths of human curiosity and the wonders of the universe. Set in a distant future where interstellar travel and colonization are a reality, the story takes readers on a gripping journey through space and time. The plot centers around a group of intrepid scientists and explorers who stumble upon a comet that holds immense potential for discovery. As they embark on a dangerous mission to uncover its secrets, they encounter a multitude of challenges, both physical and psychological. Gallun masterfully weaves together elements of mystery, adventure, and existentialism, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. One of the book's strongest aspects lies in its character development. Gallun crafts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and desires. From the determined and ambitious Dr. Lionel Sterner to the enigmatic and conflicted physicist Dr. Howard Denham, the characters' journeys mirror their own personal quests for meaning and understanding in an ever-expanding universe. The author's writing style is concise yet poetic, immersing readers in vivid descriptions of the cosmos and its wonders. Gallun's scientific and technical knowledge shines through, making the science fiction elements feel grounded and plausible. He effectively balances these intricate details with moments of introspection and philosophical pondering, resulting in a thought-provoking read that goes beyond mere entertainment. Additionally, Comet's Burial tackles important themes such as the ethics of scientific experimentation and the consequences of pushing boundaries without considering the potential ramifications. This moral undercurrent adds depth to the story, forcing readers to reflect on the implications of humanity's insatiable need for knowledge. However, there are occasional moments where the plot feels disjointed, with certain events seeming too convenient or underdeveloped. Some readers may also find the pacing a bit slow in certain sections, particularly during the exposition-heavy chapters. Nevertheless, Gallun's ability to create a sense of wonder and awe compensates for these minor shortcomings. Overall, Comet's Burial is a thought-provoking and immersive science fiction novel that will captivate fans of the genre. Raymond Z. Gallun masterfully combines scientific accuracy with philosophical musings, creating a tale that explores not only the mysteries of the universe but also the complex nature of humanity. Whether you are a seasoned science fiction reader or someone looking to delve into the genre, Comet's Burial is a book worth discovering. First Page: [Illustration: BRINKER BRINKER in footprints] A man may be a scoundrel, a crook, a high phased confidence man, and still work toward a great dream which will be worth far more than the momentary damage his swindles cost. Comet's Burial by RAYMOND Z. GALLUN Outside Tycho Station on the Moon, Jess Brinker showed Arne Copeland the odd footprints made in the dust by explorers from Mars, fifty million years ago. A man made cover of clear plastic now kept them from being trampled. "Who hasn't heard about such prints?" Copeland growled laconically. "There's no air or weather here to rub them out even in eternity. Thanks for showing a fresh arrived greenhorn around..." Copeland was nineteen, tough, willing to learn, but wary. His wide mouth was usually sullen, his grey eyes a little narrowed in a face that didn't have to be so grim. Back in Iowa he had a girl. Frances. But love had to wait, for he needed the Moon the way Peary had once needed the North Pole. Earth needed it, too for minerals; as an easier, jump off point to the planets because of its weak gravity; as a place for astronomical observatories, unhampered by the murk of an atmosphere; as sites for labs experimenting in forces too dangerous to be conducted on a heavily populated world, and for a dozen other purposes... Continue reading book >>

Comet's Burial By: Raymond Z. Gallun (1911-1994)

Comet's Burial by Raymond Z. Gallun is an enigmatic science fiction novel that explores the depths of human curiosity and the wonders of the universe. Set in a distant future where interstellar travel and colonization are a reality, the story takes readers on a gripping journey through space and time.

The plot centers around a group of intrepid scientists and explorers who stumble upon a comet that holds immense potential for discovery. As they embark on a dangerous mission to uncover its secrets, they encounter a multitude of challenges, both physical and psychological. Gallun masterfully weaves together elements of mystery, adventure, and existentialism, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

One of the book's strongest aspects lies in its character development. Gallun crafts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and desires. From the determined and ambitious Dr. Lionel Sterner to the enigmatic and conflicted physicist Dr. Howard Denham, the characters' journeys mirror their own personal quests for meaning and understanding in an ever-expanding universe.

The author's writing style is concise yet poetic, immersing readers in vivid descriptions of the cosmos and its wonders. Gallun's scientific and technical knowledge shines through, making the science fiction elements feel grounded and plausible. He effectively balances these intricate details with moments of introspection and philosophical pondering, resulting in a thought-provoking read that goes beyond mere entertainment.

Additionally, Comet's Burial tackles important themes such as the ethics of scientific experimentation and the consequences of pushing boundaries without considering the potential ramifications. This moral undercurrent adds depth to the story, forcing readers to reflect on the implications of humanity's insatiable need for knowledge.

However, there are occasional moments where the plot feels disjointed, with certain events seeming too convenient or underdeveloped. Some readers may also find the pacing a bit slow in certain sections, particularly during the exposition-heavy chapters. Nevertheless, Gallun's ability to create a sense of wonder and awe compensates for these minor shortcomings.

Overall, Comet's Burial is a thought-provoking and immersive science fiction novel that will captivate fans of the genre. Raymond Z. Gallun masterfully combines scientific accuracy with philosophical musings, creating a tale that explores not only the mysteries of the universe but also the complex nature of humanity. Whether you are a seasoned science fiction reader or someone looking to delve into the genre, Comet's Burial is a book worth discovering.

First Page:

[Illustration: BRINKER BRINKER in footprints]

A man may be a scoundrel, a crook, a high phased confidence man, and still work toward a great dream which will be worth far more than the momentary damage his swindles cost.

Comet's Burial

by RAYMOND Z. GALLUN

Outside Tycho Station on the Moon, Jess Brinker showed Arne Copeland the odd footprints made in the dust by explorers from Mars, fifty million years ago. A man made cover of clear plastic now kept them from being trampled.

"Who hasn't heard about such prints?" Copeland growled laconically. "There's no air or weather here to rub them out even in eternity. Thanks for showing a fresh arrived greenhorn around..."

Copeland was nineteen, tough, willing to learn, but wary. His wide mouth was usually sullen, his grey eyes a little narrowed in a face that didn't have to be so grim. Back in Iowa he had a girl. Frances. But love had to wait, for he needed the Moon the way Peary had once needed the North Pole.

Earth needed it, too for minerals; as an easier, jump off point to the planets because of its weak gravity; as a place for astronomical observatories, unhampered by the murk of an atmosphere; as sites for labs experimenting in forces too dangerous to be conducted on a heavily populated world, and for a dozen other purposes... Continue reading book >>

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