# The Coordinator and the Departure explained — Islands of Space

> Chapter companion for Islands of Space by John W. Campbell.

## What happens

Arcot is offered the role of Coordinator of Nansal but humbly declines, accepting instead the title of Counselor and first friend. Torlos asks to accompany the Earthmen back to their world, and the crew agrees. After a ceremony launching the first Nansalian ship, the four Earthmen and Torlos depart in the Ancient Mariner, heading home.

## Themes in this chapter

### Ethics and Governance

Arcot declines absolute power, advocating for a counselor role instead of a coordinator, emphasizing the dangers of concentrated authority.

### Conflict and Cooperation Between Civilizations

The Nansalian council offers Earthmen a permanent role, and Torlos seeks to visit Earth, demonstrating growing cooperation between civilizations.

### Exploration and Adventure

The crew prepares to return home after a successful mission, with Torlos joining them, symbolizing continued exploration and cross-cultural exchange.

## Character check-ins

### Dr. Richard Arcot

Arcot is offered the position of Coordinator but humbly declines, accepting the role of Counselor and first friend. He leads the departure from Nansal.

### Torlos

Torlos asks to visit Earth and is allowed to join the crew on the return journey. He practices English and shows eagerness to see Earth.

### Wade

Wade is playing chess with Fuller in the library and jokes about a pact not to read minds during the game.

### John Fuller

Fuller is playing chess with Wade and expresses eagerness to leave Nansal and return home.

### Morey

Morey is relaxing with a book in the library and engages in banter with Arcot about his activities.

### Tharlano

Tharlano is credited with guiding the Earthmen correctly, as they recognize the Home Galaxy looming ahead.

## Key lines

> Your vote shall outweigh all but a unanimous vote of the Three. To you, this world is answerable, for you have saved our civilization.

The Scientist tells Arcot that his vote will override any decision unless all three of the Supreme Council agree, and that the world owes its salvation to him.

_This moment formalizes Arcot's elevated status on Nansal._

> I will accept this plaque with the understanding that I am but your friend and advisor. Too much power in the hands of one man is bad.

Arcot accepts the honor only as a counselor, warning that concentrated power is dangerous.

_Arcot demonstrates humility and foresight in governance._

> Can a man of Nansal visit Earth?

Torlos asks Arcot if he can travel to Earth with them.

_Torlos expresses a desire to see Earth and learn about its people._

> Five hours saw them out of the galaxy. Twelve hours more, and they were heading for home at full speed.

The Ancient Mariner leaves the Nansalian galaxy and sets course for Earth.

_The journey home begins with a clear trajectory._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/islands_of_space_se/chapters/xxiii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/islands_of_space_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/islands_of_space_se/chapters