Ironic Knowledge

Hannah Shelloner Ironic Knowledge The Star by Arthur C. Clarke is a brilliant metaphysical anecdote on the conflict between knowledge and religion, and the derision that comes hand in hand with both. Told in a initiatory person inter-monologue narrative, the story centers around an astrophysicist observing the aftermath of a supernova explosion- the Phoenix Nebula, and the annihilation of a species chillingly similar to humans. The Star exhibits umpteen elusive undercurrents of foreshadowing right from the beginning, even the very branch paragraph. Once, I believed that space could have no power oer organized religion, just as I believed that the heavens declared the doughnut of Gods handiwork. Now I have seen that handiwork, and my faith is sorely troubled (44), states the main character (and narrator), an un-named scientist who also happens to be a Jesuit. The astrophysicist has led his whole life believing that science reaffirmed his faith, when in fact he is just starting to cloak-and-dagger the many fault lines. Miles away from the epicenter of the White Dwarf, the team up discovers a huge monolith jutting into the sky on a distant planet. Closer inspection reveals it is a race of sensate beings time capsule set up as the supernova became increasingly clear.

The photographs, figurines, music, and other vestiges of a very human-like race doomed to destruction demoralizes the crew and investigating scientists, who are far-removed from their own homes and lonely. Another broadcast poke of religious irony is that the original supernova explosion was perceive as The Star of Bethlehem in biblical times. As the astrophysicist gazes upon the kitchen-gardening treasure chest of the lost species he realizes that for a kind, intelligent, animate being to be completely wiped out by a fluke of the universe there cannot be a higher(prenominal) force. Or, at least, not the higher force he has played out his entire life worshiping. He registers that his colleagues have been correct in their skepticism and feels a cold... If you want to get a adequate essay, order it on our website: Orderessay

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