The State of the Art by Iain M Banks

[Vertigo]

The State of the Art by Iain M Banks (2/5 stars)

I was rather disappointed by this book. I think that the short story wasn’t really Banks’ strongest format (sad that I have to keep remembering to use the past tense). I found the short stories either so cryptic I didn’t understand them or completely pointless (nothing happens with no interesting ideas or characters). The only redeeming one was the title story The State of the Art, but that was really a novella and even then was not up to what I expect from Banks. He exceled in creating deep complex worlds and plots and I think the short story simply didn’t play to his strengths.

I almost didn't post this as I has so little to say about it! But then maybe that alone says something!

 

[Gramm838]

It's interesting that you make the point about the stories being pointless or nothing happens...I think that maybe Iain was having a laugh at someone's expense with his SF novels that seem to end up back where they started - the best example being The Algebraist.

As for SoTA, my favourite story is 'Descendant'.

Still, he (and the Culture) will be much missed in the future

 

[Vertigo]

Yes the Descendant wasn't bad and probably the best structured short story; a neat idea packaged up in a neat wrapper (complete with typical Banksie play on words in the title). However, I'll be honest, I had a pretty good idea how it was going to pan out by the time I was a third through it.

I probably should have made the point that I love Banks' books and found this sadly very atypical.

And yes he will be missed. I keep catching myself posting about him in the present tense.