In conclusion, “Ilium” is a tour-de-force of science fiction storytelling, a novel that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. Simmons masterfully weaves together elements of science fiction, horror, and mythology, creating a rich and complex narrative that challenges readers to question their own assumptions about reality and the nature of humanity. The novel follows several parallel storylines, including the story of a human classicist named Thomas Hockenberry, who is summoned to the post-human’s virtual reality world to serve as a translator and advisor the story of a moravec named Odysseus, who begins to question his programming and his role in the simulated war and the story of a post-human named Mahnmut, who begins to suspect that the simulation is not all it seems.Īs the novel progresses, these storylines begin to intersect and overlap, revealing a deeper and more sinister purpose behind the simulation. The novel takes place in the distant future, where humanity has been divided into two distinct groups: the “post-humans,” who have transcended the limitations of their physical bodies and live in a virtual reality simulation of the Trojan War and the “moravecs,” a race of advanced robots who have taken over the role of humanity’s descendants. One of his most notable works is “Ilium,” a complex and ambitious novel that explores themes of technology, mythology, and the nature of reality. In the following years, he published a string of critically acclaimed novels and short stories, cementing his place as one of the most respected and innovative voices in the science fiction and horror genres. He first rose to prominence in the 1980s with his debut novel, “Song of Kali,” which won the World Fantasy Award and set the tone for his career as a master of literary horror. Dan Simmons is an American science fiction and horror author known for his eclectic and ambitious works that blend a wide variety of genres and styles.

Ilium book review