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Cover of That worlds may live

That worlds may live

Written by Nelson S. Bond

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Science FictionOuter spaceExtraterrestrial beingsInterplanetary voyagesArmageddon

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About this book

"That Worlds May Live" by Nelson S. Bond is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the main character, Dr. Gary Lane, and his team of scientists who embark on a daring quest to save Earth from imminent doom after a shocking discovery during their lunar expedition indicates that the universe may be contracting, endangering their solar system. The opening of the book introduces readers to a thrilling setting where the characters return from a trip to Luna, only to be faced with the gravity of their findings. Gary Lane reveals their pivotal discovery that challenges longstanding cosmological theories, suggesting catastrophic consequences for their galaxy. As the narrative unfolds, the team grapples with skepticism from colleagues and the machinations of a mysterious enemy, threatening their findings and lives. Amid the scientific intrigue and impending danger, the dynamics between the characters develop, notably the tension between Gary and his new assistant, Miss Nora Powell, as they forge ahead into uncharted territory. Their adventure escalates quickly, setting the stage for a broader exploration of survival and truth in the cosmos.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in That worlds may live, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • mysterious
  • tense
  • adventurous

Nelson S. Bond's "That Worlds May Live" is an early 20th-century science fiction novel that plunges Dr. Gary Lane and his team into a desperate quest to save Earth. Following a lunar expedition, Lane discovers the universe is contracting, posing an existential threat to their solar system. The narrative unfolds as Lane battles skepticism from the scientific community and faces sabotage from a mysterious enemy intent on suppressing his findings. Amidst this high-stakes scientific drama, the complex relationship between Gary Lane and his new assistant, Miss Nora Powell, develops, driving them further into an adventure against cosmic destruction and human conspiracy. The story explores themes of scientific truth, survival, and the unknown, set against a backdrop of imminent galactic peril.

“"We stand not merely on the precipice of discovery, but on the very edge of oblivion. The universe, it seems, is not expanding, but contracting."”

Key themes

Survival and Humanity's Future
This is the central driving force of the narrative. The discovery of a contracting universe immediately places humanity on the brink of extinction, prompting a desperate quest for survival. The theme explores questions of collective responsibility, human ingenuity in the face of overwhelming odds, and the ultimate value of preserving life and civilization.
Scientific Discovery vs. Skepticism and Dogma
The novel highlights the tension between groundbreaking scientific discovery and the resistance it often faces from established scientific thought and institutions. Dr. Lane's struggle to convince his colleagues underscores the challenges of introducing revolutionary ideas that overturn long-held beliefs, exploring the human tendency to cling to familiar paradigms even in the face of mounting evidence.
Humanity's Place in the Cosmos and the Unknown
The core premise of a contracting universe forces humanity to confront its smallness and vulnerability in the face of overwhelming cosmic forces. This theme explores humanity's existential position, its capacity for discovery in a universe largely unknown, and the psychological impact of realizing one's world is fundamentally imperiled by forces beyond immediate control. It touches upon awe, terror, and the drive to understand the fundamental laws of existence.

Worth discussing

How does Dr. Lane's discovery challenge existing scientific paradigms, and what does this say about the nature of scientific progress?

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