“What if?”
This is always a thought-provoking question. Often, the answer exists only in our imagination.
Salt Spring’s Gary MacLellan, in his novel, The Pod, invites us to “imagine a world without violence.”
Dr. Clara Kinnon is a brilliant and idealistic physicist who invents an impenetrable shield, called the Pod. She can offer safety and protection to every man, woman and child on the planet. Individuals can live without fear of physical intimidation and threats. The ideals expressed by the United Nations and peace lovers everywhere can be achieved – no more war.
Imagine fighting fires – from the inside. Thrill seekers can skydive without a parachute. Traffic pileups and airline accidents would not be tragic.
The key question becomes: Who will get a pod? Or more importantly: Who decides who gets one? What would happen if an unprincipled despot regulated manufacture and distribution. Clara realizes that if some people are protected, pods can become weaponized against everyone else.
“My vision is quite simple. Everybody should have one – if they want one. Together, let’s guarantee that every person in the world is safe.”
Naturally, there are those who wish to seize control. Governments, munitions manufacturers, and crime bosses have much to gain or lose. Some religious leaders claim her device is demonic.
And what becomes of humanity if her vision is embraced? Would any aspect remain unchanged, such as culture, human rights, sport? Some occupations would become obsolete. “Without warfare expenditures and rebuilding costs after every conflict, countries and their citizens will become wealthier.”
Kinnon’s drive and inner conflicts arise from fear and are deepened by loss. We have an opportunity to understand her, her motivations and her values. To protect everyone, she must decide whether to trust humanity or retain control.
What would you do?
Everyone is welcome to attend the launch of The Pod at the Salt Spring Public Library on Saturday, Nov. 29 at 2 p.m.