An exclusive excerpt from Claire North's latest space opera, 'Slow Gods', provides a fascinating window into a meticulously constructed future society. Chosen as the New Scientist Book Club’s July read, the novel introduces readers to a universe where corporate entities, known as 'Ventures', govern vast swathes of human existence, shaping everything from urban development to personal identity and financial standing.
The extract focuses on the early life of the protagonist, Mawukana 'Respected' na-Vdnaze, on the planet Tu-mdo. Tu-mdo, a prime candidate for terraforming, had been colonised centuries prior, with its initial landing strip, Glastya Row, evolving into a bustling borough of the city Heom. This city is under the dominion of the Antekeda Venture, a powerful organisation whose influence is so profound it even dictates naming conventions. Children's middle names, such as 'Chairman' (15%), 'Entrepreneur' (10%), and 'Director' (9%), reveal the aspirational, business-centric culture pervasive in these societies.
Mawukana’s own name, 'Respected', chosen by parents with a blend of ambition and 'grim realism', reflects a desire for social standing within this system, if not necessarily for stratospheric success. However, the extract quickly reveals the stark realities of life under the Venture. Mawukana is born with a significant debt, a 'Chint' implanted at birth, symbolising the costs accrued from hospital services, vaccinations, and even bedding. Despite their parents' careful savings, Mawukana enters the world owing 700 Glint, with a 1.5 per cent child-rate interest accumulating.
This system, as explained within the narrative, is framed as a matter of 'fairness' and a cornerstone of the 'United Social Venture' philosophy. Citizens are taught that everything provided by the Venture – from breathable air to education – is a result of immense effort and sacrifice, and their debts represent the 'needful labour' they are expected to contribute in return. This ideology, encapsulated by the maxim 'All are born equal, and by their labours shall they rise', underpins the economic and social structures of this future.
By the age of fifteen, Mawukana’s initial debt, despite receiving 50 shares from the Venture at birth, had ballooned to over 92,000 Glint, highlighting the relentless financial pressures faced by individuals in this society. The novel promises to explore the implications of this deep-seated debt system as Mawukana navigates a universe on the brink of significant cosmic events, including a supernova and the potential encounter with a god-like entity.