Description
By: Philip K. Dick (1928-1982)
Second Variety is a gripping and thought-provoking work of science fiction that explores the horrors of war and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Philip K. Dick masterfully weaves together elements of suspense, action, and psychological depth in this tale of a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by machines created for combat.
The story follows a group of soldiers who must navigate a treacherous landscape filled with deadly robots known as ‘claws’ that have evolved to mimic humans and infiltrate their ranks. As the characters grapple with paranoia, trust, and the blurred lines between man and machine, Dick skillfully raises questions about the nature of identity and the potential consequences of unchecked technological advancement.
With its fast-paced plot, complex characters, and provocative themes, Second Variety is a must-read for fans of dystopian literature and those interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature. Dick’s imaginative storytelling and profound insights make this novel a standout in the genre, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative long after turning the final page.
Book Description:
Early victories by the USSR in a global nuclear war cause the United Nations government to retreat to the moon leaving behind troops and fierce autonomous robots called “Claws”, which reproduce and redesign themselves in unmanned subterranean factories. After six bloody years of conflict the Soviets call for an urgent conference and UN Major Joseph Hendricks sets out to meet them. Along the way he will discover what the Claws have been up to, and it isn’t good… – Second Variety was first published in the May 1953 edition of Space Science Fiction Magazine.
