Short Science Fiction · Chapter
VII explained
The Industrialist and the Astronomer discuss the crashed alien ship, lamenting that no survivors survived to repair it and that trade with the aliens would have been impossible due to their disturbing differences.
What happens
The Industrialist and the Astronomer discuss the crashed alien ship, lamenting that no survivors survived to repair it and that trade with the aliens would have been impossible due to their disturbing differences. The scene shifts to a domestic conflict when Red's mother reveals that Red stole raw chopped meat from the kitchen, upsetting the cook. Red admits he took the meat for two small animal pets, and the Industrialist orders him to get rid of them.
Themes in this chapter
Alien Contact and Misunderstanding
The Industrialist and Astronomer reflect on the crashed alien ship, concluding that the aliens are 'too different, too disturbing' for any trade or meaningful contact.
Characters to notice
- The Industrialist
Discusses the crashed alien ship with the Astronomer, then confronts Red about stealing chopped meat for his pets.
- The Astronomer
Bitterly laments the loss of the alien ship and its crew; later intervenes to remind the Industrialist about Slim's earlier question about animal diets.
- Red
Steals raw chopped meat from the kitchen to feed his two small animal pets; is confronted by his father and ordered to get rid of them.
- Slim
Mentioned as having asked the Astronomer what animals eat, which indirectly reveals Red's pet-keeping.
Key passages
“It’s the workmanship that gets me. I never saw such construction.”
The Industrialist marvels at the quality of the alien ship's construction.
Highlights the Industrialist's appreciation for the alien technology.
“If they had survived, there would be no trade in any case. They’re too different. Too disturbing.”
The Industrialist argues that even if the aliens had lived, their differences would have prevented any trade.
Emphasizes the theme of alien contact and misunderstanding.