Future Glitter by A.E. Van Vogt (book review).
In the introduction, Van Vogt explains how he was invited to a Chinese delegation meeting in New York by a friend he knew long ago, now living there, and found him surrounded by 50 Chinese people and some distance from his pal. He explains that the way he got around them was to take over the seat of anyone who got up for food or a loo break, and within 90 minutes, he reached his friend. This demonstrated his ability to think creatively and challenge the political regime of a different country.
The story that followed, ‘Future Glitter,’ begins with Professor Dan Higenworth, who has won a scientific award, the Accolade, for his work, the Pervasive System, and, in three days, will be decapitated. In that time, he wants to create a revolution. As such, we see much of the story through Orlo Thomas as he meets various people as he progressively gets to the dictatorship Chairman Martin Lilgin. Orlo is already in the system but discovers things aren’t quite what they seem. Everywhere is bugged, but he knows that there aren’t enough people to monitor everyone. There is also a regular stand-in for Lilgin, so protect him from suicide. Hope you’re beginning to notice some similarities to current dictator policies? This book, ‘Future Glitter,’ was released in 1973 but set way in the future. It was only a day after I wrote this review that I realised the parallels.
What follows is Orlo working out loyalties, keeping in check anyone who might mess up his plan, and avoiding offers himself. It becomes a tour de force. Like a lot of Van Vogt’s later books, he doesn’t necessarily follow the traditional SF tropes, many of which he created himself. It’s also a compelling read because you want to know what happens next. I think there are some areas that could be a little clearer, but there was a lot to fit into 216 pages. The visualness is still effective. There are some spoilers, but it gives some insight into Van Vogt seeing story potential in everything.
GF Willmetts
December 2024
(pub: Ace Books, 1973. 216 page paperback. Price: varies. ISBN: 441-25980-095).
