Clarke’s novel imagines a monumental space elevator, blending engineering marvels with philosophical depth.
“Fountains of Paradise” is a science fiction
novel that intertwines the story of a futuristic space elevator with elements of Sri Lankan culture and history. Set in the 22nd century, the novel follows engineer Vannevar Morgan as he spearheads the construction of a space elevator on the fictional island of Taprobane (based on Sri Lanka). The novel explores the technical challenges, political complexities, and societal implications of building such a monumental structure, which aims to revolutionize space travel by providing a cheap and efficient means of transportation to orbit. Clarke skillfully blends hard science fiction with cultural and historical elements, offering a thought-provoking exploration of human ambition, technological progress, and the interconnectedness of civilizations across time and space.
