Holy Fire is a 1996 science fiction novel by American writer Bruce Sterling. It was nominated for the British Science Fiction Award in 1996,[1] and for both the Hugo and Locus Awards in 1997.[2]
.jpg) First edition (UK) | |
| Author | Bruce Sterling |
|---|---|
| Cover artist | Holly Warburton |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Science fiction |
| Publisher | Orion (UK) Bantam Books (US) |
Publication date | June 1996 (UK) Sept 1996 (US) |
| Publication place | United States |
| Media type | Print (Hardcover & Paperback) |
| Pages | 294 |
| ISBN | 0-553-09958-2 |
| OCLC | 34513313 |
| 813/.54 20 | |
| LC Class | PS3569.T3876 H6 1996 |
Holy Fire is the story of an old woman who has gained a second youth—in a world in which radical life extension is available through highly intrusive technological means—and who has an ontological transformation as a result.
The story is set in a post-plague 21st century where advanced medical technology has created a gerontocratic society dominated by cautious, wealthy elderly citizens who have access to life-extension treatments.
Plot Summary
The novel follows Mia Ziemann, a 94-year-old medical economist living in the United States. After undergoing an experimental medical procedure called "post-human" treatment in Texas, she experiences a radical physical and mental transformation that leads her to abandon her careful, structured life. Taking on the new identity of Maya, she travels to Europe, exploring bohemian art scenes and youth culture while grappling with questions of identity, mortality, and the meaning of life.
Themes
Holy Fire explores interconnected themes about the societal implications of radical life extension and the resulting generational conflict in a world dominated by a risk-averse elderly population. Through Mia/Maya's transformation and journey, Sterling examines how medical technology impacts human identity and consciousness, while questioning the relationship between youth, creativity, and risk-taking behavior. The novel delves into the tension between stability and artistic expression, suggesting that the ultra-cautious mindset of the elderly "gerontocrats" stifles the vital chaos necessary for cultural and artistic innovation. These themes are woven together through the lens of Mia's personal transformation, as she moves from being a representative of careful, controlled longevity to embracing the unpredictable vitality of youth culture, raising deeper questions about what makes life worth living and whether extreme longevity comes at the cost of truly experiencing life.
Reception
Holy Fire received generally positive reviews upon release, with critics praising Sterling's exploration of posthuman themes and his detailed worldbuilding. The novel was nominated for the British Science Fiction Association Award for Best Novel.
Literary Significance
The book is considered one of Sterling's major works and an important contribution to posthuman science fiction. It has been noted for its prescient examination of issues surrounding aging populations and life extension technology, as well as its critique of risk-averse societies.
Publication History
First published in 1996 by Bantam Spectra, the novel has since been translated into multiple languages and remains in print.
References
edit- ^ "1996 Award Winners & Nominees". Worlds Without End. Retrieved 2009-08-05.
- ^ "1997 Award Winners & Nominees". Worlds Without End. Retrieved 2009-08-05.
External links
edit- Holy Fire title listing at the Internet Speculative Fiction Database
- Holy Fire at Worlds Without End
