Three Go Back (Science Fiction Classic): Rediscovery of Atlantis

By James Leslie Mitchell and Lewis Grassic Gibbon

Book Overview

In "Three Go Back," Lewis Grassic Gibbon crafts a compelling narrative that delves into the intricate interplay of time and human experience. Set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic landscape, the novella unfolds as three protagonists embark on a journey to confront their pasts, grappling with the consequences of their actions in a world irrevocably altered. Gibbon's lyrical prose and rich character development reflect a deep exploration of existential themes, showcasing his ability to intertwine elements of science fiction with poignant social commentary, rooted in the literary traditions of early 20th-century thought. Lewis Grassic Gibbon, a prominent Scottish author and socialist thinker, drew inspiration for "Three Go Back" from his own reflections on the socio-political changes of his time. His experiences in World War I, coupled with an acute awareness of the human condition, shaped his perspective on the cyclical nature of history and the moral quandaries faced by individuals. Gibbon's commitment to portraying the complexities of humanity is evident throughout the novella, making it a significant contribution to both the science fiction genre and Scottish literature. Readers seeking a thought-provoking narrative that transcends conventional boundaries will find "Three Go Back" to be an essential read. Gibbon's blend of personal conflict, philosophical inquiry, and richly imagined futurism invites readers to reflect on their own lives in the shadow of an uncertain future, positioning this work as a timeless classic in the canon of speculative fiction.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 8027335965
• ISBN13: 9788027335961
• Release Date: December 2020
• Publisher: E-Artnow
• Length: 100 Pages
• Weight: 0.32 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A Surprisingly Intelligent Book

Considering the rubbish that was being churned out novel wise in the 1930's, I was surprised at the quality of the writing, especially as it was dealing with science fiction. The story line follows a time travel theme in which three survivors from an airship disaster find themselves trapped in a world some 25,000 years in the past. But this is no ordinary time-travel novel, because the travellers in question are in fact living a kind of racial memory in which they are players rather than participants. The writing is rich in description, and you can almost feel the heat from the many volcanoes that litter a changing land. The book can be hard going, Lewis Grassic Gibbon, the author has written a complex story around what could be a pulp fiction story-line and has managed to give it considerable literary merit. His three travellers are surprisingly believable, and totally in tune with their own time, and its many "civilised" intrigues. Their descent into the past shows them that little has changed in 25,000 years, only the technology has got better, but the mind is still untamed. If this young writer had lived past his 35th birthday he might well have given H.G.Wells a run for his money. This book is worth reading simply because it is very hard to find an intelligent 1930s science fiction that reads like literature.