Die grosse Stille

This collection of stories contains nine original, creative, and moving tales, four of which are appearing in German for the first time, including "Omphalos," which won the Locus Award in 2020. In this book, Ted Chiang tackles some of humanity's oldest questions while also describing new dilemmas that only he can imagine.

"The Merchant at the Alchemist's Portal" tells the story of a fabric seller in ancient Baghdad who gains the ability to travel through time, leading him to confront past mistakes and unexpected second chances. In "Exhalation," an alien scientist makes a shocking discovery with literally universal implications. Meanwhile, "The Truth of Facts, the Truth of Feelings" explores digital memories, life lies, and what truly matters in life. Lastly, "Fear is the Tremor of Freedom" reveals what happens when one can peer into parallel worlds using "prisms" and check how life would have unfolded with a different decision: an expensive pleasure that becomes addictive.

Ted Chiang at his best: profound, compassionate - revealing.