Saturday, May 3, 2025

Virtual Light by William Gibson (1993)


William Gibson's Bridge Trilogy reaffirms his mastery of immersive world-building and vibrant characters, qualities that made Neuromancer and the Sprawl Trilogy unforgettable. After finding the Blue Ant series lackluster—its world, magic system, and characters failed to resonate—I hesitated to return to Gibson's work. However, this Bridge Trilogy novel, set in a richly imagined future, proves a rewarding exception. The universe pulses with energy, the characters brim with depth, and Gibson's prose captivates with its sharp, evocative flair.

That said, Gibson's futurism remains a weak point. His 1993 vision of 2005, as depicted here, exemplifies his often-inaccurate predictions of technology and science. Yet, the brilliance of his writing and the charisma of his characters more than compensate for these shortcomings, delivering a compelling narrative that overshadows the dated speculation. Bridge Trilogy is a testament to Gibson's enduring ability to craft worlds that linger in the imagination. 4/5 stars.

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