Nightfall
by Isaac Asimov
Introduction
"Join us as I discuss Nightfall, written by Isaac Asimov when he was only twenty-one. Asimov was a chemist by training, but you probably know him best as a science fiction author—although he only wrote a handful of sci-fi novels, including Foundation. Mostly he wrote short stories, and we’re going to talk about his first short story success today—a famous little tale called Nightfall. But, full disclosure—I really love Isaac Asimov for his nonfiction. There’s hardly a topic that I’ve studied that Asimov didn’t thoroughly digest and write about in the clearest of language." - \(\textit{Kimberly Hatch Harrison}\)
Socratica Reads Podcast
Nightfall
by Isaac Asimov
On a distant planet, night comes only once every two thousand years, and as the next darkness approaches, scientists uncover a terrifying truth. The return of the stars brings madness, and an entire civilization must face the unknown that lies in the shadows. "Nightfall" by Isaac Asimov explores the thin line between knowledge and fear when the lights go out.
“The thing about science fiction is that it’s this wonderful combination—it’s both a peek into someone’s pure imagination and their problem-solving brain. I mean, I KNOW that Asimov had a firm grasp on previously solved scientific problems, and he was just a GENIUS at explaining things, especially the history of science and the story behind how much of technology emerged. But his works of fiction are also very precious to me because I get to see how this incredible teacher works out a hypothetical. I get to see Asimov doing thought experiments. It’s a real treat.”
Kimberly Hatch Harrison
Recommendation
Brave New World
In Brave New World, Aldous Huxley presents a future where technology controls every aspect of human life, from birth to death. People are kept in a state of artificial happiness through drugs, conditioning, and constant distractions, losing their individuality and freedom. The story explores the costs of sacrificing personal autonomy for societal stability, challenging readers to consider what makes life truly meaningful.
