Who is the author of 'The Peripheral'?

The author of 'The Peripheral' is William Gibson.

What are the main themes in 'The Peripheral'?

The main themes in 'The Peripheral' include Time Travel, Dystopian, Science Fiction.

What genre is 'The Peripheral'?

'The Peripheral' is categorized as Science Fiction.

What is the main plot of 'The Peripheral'?

The Peripheral, by William Gibson, is a science fiction novel that spans two futures—one in a near-future America devastated by economic collapse, and another in a distant future where technology has drastically changed society. The story follows Flynne Fisher, a young woman who works at a low-paying job in a near-future world where she spends her time playing virtual reality games to support her family. Flynne becomes involved with an experimental technology that allows her to connect with a "peripheral"—a robotic body in the future. As she participates in this technology, she becomes entangled in a conspiracy that spans both timelines. The narrative weaves themes of technology, surveillance, and the implications of virtual reality, as Flynne uncovers a serious crime that threatens both her world and the future. As she navigates the dangers of both realities, the novel explores the complexities of identity, technology, and the potential impacts of social change.

Who are the primary characters in 'The Peripheral'?

The primary characters in 'The Peripheral' by William Gibson include: Flynne Fisher - A young woman from a near-future America who becomes involved in a mysterious virtual reality game. Burton Fisher - Flynne's brother, a former soldier who plays a critical role in the events of the story. Aneka - A character from the distant future who interacts with Flynne. Cayce Pollard - Another character with ties to the plot, following the themes of technology and corporate intrigue. The narrative weaves between their perspectives and experiences across different timelines.

What are the central themes explored in 'The Peripheral'?

'The Peripheral' by William Gibson explores several central themes, including: Technology and its Impact: The novel examines the consequences of advanced technology on society, particularly through the use of 'peripherals'—remote-controlled bodies that allow users to interact with different realities. Class and Economic Disparity: It highlights the vast differences in wealth and power between the characters in the near-future rural America and their counterparts in the more advanced future, raising questions about inequality and exploitation. Time and Reality: The narrative delves into concepts of time travel and alternate realities, exploring how actions in one timeline can affect another, blurring the lines between different versions of reality. Identity and Agency: The story raises questions about identity, especially through the use of avatars and peripherals, challenging the notion of self and the consequences of manipulating one's presence in different realities. Surveillance and Control: The theme of surveillance emerges as characters navigate a world where their actions are closely monitored, reflecting on issues of privacy and control in modern society. Human Connection: Amidst technological advancements, the narrative also explores the importance of human relationships and connections, showcasing both the isolation and bonding that technology can create.

How does the concept of technology impact the story in 'The Peripheral'?

In 'The Peripheral' by William Gibson, technology plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and the characters' lives. The novel features advanced technologies such as time travel, virtual reality, and sophisticated robotics, which create a complex interplay between different timelines and realities. The central technology in the story is the 'peripheral'—a remote robotic body that allows characters to interact with the world in a physical manner, while their consciousness is in a different location. This concept explores themes of identity and existence, blurring the lines between reality and simulation. Additionally, technology serves as a reflection of societal divides, where the affluent utilize advanced innovations for personal gain, while those in less privileged circumstances are left to navigate the repercussions of these advancements. Overall, technology in 'The Peripheral' influences the plot's dynamics, highlights social inequalities, and raises questions about the nature of humanity in an increasingly digitized world.

In what ways does 'The Peripheral' reflect societal issues or concerns?

'The Peripheral' by William Gibson reflects several societal issues and concerns that resonate in contemporary society: Technological Disparities: The novel explores the divide between the advanced future society and the struggling present, highlighting how technological advancements can exacerbate social inequalities. This reflects current concerns about the digital divide and access to technology across different socioeconomic classes. Surveillance and Privacy: Through its depiction of a world saturated with surveillance, the novel raises questions about privacy and the implications of living in a constantly monitored society, a theme that resonates with real-world discussions about data collection by governments and corporations. Post-Globalization: The book addresses the aftermath of globalization, particularly in how economies can collapse and transform, leading to new forms of power dynamics and societal structures. This mirrors ongoing debates about the consequences of global capitalism. Environmental Concerns: The future depicted in 'The Peripheral' shows significant ecological changes and challenges, serving as a commentary on current environmental issues such as climate change and sustainability. The Nature of Work: The contrast between the jobs available in the present versus the future raises concerns about employment and the evolution of labor in a tech-driven world, paralleling contemporary anxieties about automation and job displacement. Overall, Gibson's narrative serves as a lens through which to view complex societal and ethical issues that are increasingly relevant in today's world.

The Peripheral

In 'The Peripheral,' William Gibson crafts a mesmerizing tale of dual realities and technology's far-reaching impact. Set in a near-future America and a distant, dystopian future, the story follows Flynne Fisher, who unwittingly gets entangled in a conspiracy that spans time itself. As she navigates these intricate worlds, Flynne discovers the shocking truths behind her own existence and the threads that connect them. With mind-bending concepts and a suspenseful plot, Gibson explores the intersections of identity, power, and fate. Will Flynne be able to manipulate the future to save herself and those she loves?

By William Gibson

Published: 2015

"The future is not what it used to be."

Science Fiction Dystopian Time Travel

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

Originally published by G.P. Putnam's Sons in 2014.

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from The Peripheral

'The Peripheral' by William Gibson intricately weaves two distinct timelines: the near-future America, where Flynne Fisher navigates her reality, and the more distant, dystopian future that she comes to interact with through advanced technology. Flynne, initially ensconced in her everyday life, becomes embroiled in a conspiracy when she takes on a simulated role that spirals into actual events affecting both timelines. A key example of the complex plot development is the intersection of Flynne's mundane existence with the high-stakes machinations in the future, especially illustrated by her discovery of a murder scheme that reverberates back into her life, blurring the lines of virtual and real threats. This duality not only heightens suspense but also emphasizes the ramifications of technological advancements and societal decay. The intertwining plots enhance the book’s exploration of themes such as identity, agency, and the ripple effects of actions across time and space, showcasing how one's reality can inherently shape another's future. The nuanced connections between the timelines and characters illustrate the fragility of time and how personal choices resonate beyond their immediate consequences, making the plot development not just gripping but also philosophically rich.

About the Author

William Gibson

William Gibson is a renowned American-Canadian author and one of the pioneers of the science fiction genre known as cyberpunk. He is best known for his seminal works, including 'Neuromancer', 'Count Zero', and 'Mona Lisa Overdrive', which collectively form the Sprawl trilogy. Gibson's writing is characterized by its rich descriptions, intricate plots, and exploration of themes such as technology, cyberspace, and the implications of a digitized world. His unique style blends sharp prose with a visionary perspective, influencing countless authors and shaping the landscape of modern science fiction.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: William Gibson
Published: October 2015
Publisher: Berkley
ISBN: 0425276236
Language: English
Pages: 498
Genres: Time TravelDystopianScience Fiction

Purchase Options

Buy on Amazon

Buy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The Time Traveler's Wife

Audrey Niffenegger

The Left Hand of Darkness

Ursula K. Le Guin

Watchmen

Alan Moore, Dave Gibbons

The Three-Body Problem

Cixin Liu

The Time Machine

H. G. Wells

The Handmaid's Tale

Margaret Atwood

Atlas Shrugged

Ayn Rand

Fahrenheit 451

Ray Bradbury

Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Book Collections you might like →

Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations

Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

View Collection

Paul Jarvis's Book Recommendations

Paul Jarvis is a Canadian author, entrepreneur, and web designer renowned for his insightful contributions to the literature on entrepreneurship and work-life balance. His best-selling book, "Company of One," challenges traditional business growth paradigms by advocating for staying small and avoiding unnecessary scaling. Jarvis's work has been featured in highly respected publications like Forbes, Fast Company, and The Huffington Post. In addition to writing, he hosts popular podcasts, including "Creative Class," which offers advice for freelancers and creative professionals. Jarvis's thought leadership continues to inspire a generation of entrepreneurs to build sustainable and fulfilling careers.

View Collection

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.

View Collection

Winston Churchill's Book Recommendations

Winston Churchill (1874-1965) was a British statesman, military leader, and author who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II, leading the country to victory against Nazi Germany. Renowned for his oratory skills, Churchill's speeches and radio broadcasts were a source of inspiration and morale for the British public during the war. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his numerous published works, including his six-volume account of World War II and his four-volume "A History of the English-Speaking Peoples." Besides his political and literary achievements, Churchill also authored novels, biographies, and essays, contributing significantly to 20th-century literature. His legacy endures through his impactful writings and steadfast leadership during one of history's most tumultuous periods.

View Collection

Chris Young's Book Recommendations

Chris Young is an acclaimed author known for his compelling storytelling and diverse range of genres. His breakthrough novel, "The Bridge," garnered critical acclaim, earning him a spot on the New York Times Best Seller list. Young's innovative approach to blending mystery and psychological drama has captivated readers worldwide. He has received numerous literary awards, including the prestigious Edgar Award for Best Novel. Beyond writing, Young is an advocate for literacy and frequently participates in workshops and speaking engagements to inspire aspiring writers.

View Collection

Stewart Brand's Book Recommendations

Stewart Brand is an influential American writer, best known for founding the Whole Earth Catalog, a publication that became a cornerstone of the counter-culture movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His pioneering work in promoting environmental sustainability and self-sufficiency has had a lasting impact on both literature and society. Brand is also a co-founder of The WELL, an early online community that predated the widespread use of the internet and helped shape the development of digital culture. He has authored several significant books, including "The Media Lab" and "Whole Earth Discipline," which explore technology's role in environmental and societal issues. Brand's contributions continue to influence contemporary discussions on ecology, technology, and community building.

View Collection

“The future is not what it used to be.”

The Peripheral

By William Gibson

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.

The Peripheral

Start Listening

What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from The Peripheral

About the Author

William Gibson

Book Details

Purchase Options

Similar books you might like →

The Time Traveler's Wife

The Left Hand of Darkness

Watchmen

The Three-Body Problem

The Time Machine

The Handmaid's Tale

Atlas Shrugged

Fahrenheit 451

Take your reading experience to the next level

Book Collections you might like →

Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations

Paul Jarvis's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Winston Churchill's Book Recommendations

Chris Young's Book Recommendations

Stewart Brand's Book Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Genres

Genres

Genres

Featured Collections