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A review by kaylielongley
The Man Who Fell to Earth by Walter Tevis
5.0
Science fiction is my favorite genre of literature. These books are reminders of the overwhelming possibility of the universe. Science fiction reveals by painting a beautiful and deep yet terrifying picture of the cosmos. That picture tells us that for some reason or another, unbeknownst to most of us, we exist. Science fiction also warns, often through speculation or destruction. But the main reason why I love science fiction is simple: at its core, it’s very human, exposing the curiosities, possibilities, expectations, and stories of the human race.
The Man Who Fell to Earth, first published in the early 1960s, doesn't have ray guns and intergalactic war scenes. Author Walter Tevis drops the typical tropes and instead has written a very poignant, though slightly dated, novel that has since received a film adaptation staring David Bowie (yes, it’s on my watch-list). Its plot is admittedly simple, but each character is immensely intriguing. It features two perspectives which include Nathan Bryce, a scientist fascinated with the practical laws of the universe, and Newton, the titular alien, who quickly defies said logic. They learn to work together, Newton in the hope of saving the last of his people on Planet Anthea, and Bryce in his quest for meaning.
The novel is brutally honest about the ruthless, desolate nature of life. After years of studying American culture and its many particulars, Newton’s crash-landing to earth is unexpected, but rural Kentucky is even more so. Newton wants to save his own people, but he can’t save himself. His turn to gin and money for the pursuit of temporary satisfaction is both escapist and hedonistic. Similarly, Bryce’s obsession with chemistry is formed out of a desperate need for meaningfulness in an increasingly confusing, chaotic world. In reality, no one can be saved, and no one truly belongs. This is a fast-paced, beautiful novel that lingers. I’m excited to watch the film.
The Man Who Fell to Earth, first published in the early 1960s, doesn't have ray guns and intergalactic war scenes. Author Walter Tevis drops the typical tropes and instead has written a very poignant, though slightly dated, novel that has since received a film adaptation staring David Bowie (yes, it’s on my watch-list). Its plot is admittedly simple, but each character is immensely intriguing. It features two perspectives which include Nathan Bryce, a scientist fascinated with the practical laws of the universe, and Newton, the titular alien, who quickly defies said logic. They learn to work together, Newton in the hope of saving the last of his people on Planet Anthea, and Bryce in his quest for meaning.
The novel is brutally honest about the ruthless, desolate nature of life. After years of studying American culture and its many particulars, Newton’s crash-landing to earth is unexpected, but rural Kentucky is even more so. Newton wants to save his own people, but he can’t save himself. His turn to gin and money for the pursuit of temporary satisfaction is both escapist and hedonistic. Similarly, Bryce’s obsession with chemistry is formed out of a desperate need for meaningfulness in an increasingly confusing, chaotic world. In reality, no one can be saved, and no one truly belongs. This is a fast-paced, beautiful novel that lingers. I’m excited to watch the film.