Trouble with Lichen
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Trouble with Lichen (published 1960) is a science fiction novel by John Wyndham. It is intended as a social satire; opinion varies as to its quality. It is not generally regarded as one of Wyndham's best novels, but some consider it an interesting and entertaining piece nevertheless.
[edit] Plot summary
The plot concerns a young woman biochemist who discovers that a chemical extracted from an unusual strain of lichen (hence the title) can be used to retard the ageing process, enabling people to live to around 200-300 years. Wyndham speculates how society would deal with this prospect.
[edit] Quote
“This is not the age of reason, this is the age of flummery, and the day of the devious approach. Reason’s gone into the backrooms where it works to devise means by which people can be induced to emote in the desired direction.”John Wyndham, J. (1960), The Trouble With Lichen. Penguin Books. pg. 91. Note: Minor adaptations added.
John Wyndham |
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Bibliography |
Novels: |
Foul Play Suspected · The Secret People · Stowaway To Mars · The Day of the Triffids · The Kraken Wakes · The Chrysalids · The Midwich Cuckoos · The Outward Urge · Trouble with Lichen · Chocky · Web |
Collections: |
Jizzle · The Seeds of Time · Tales of Gooseflesh and Laughter · Consider Her Ways and Others · The Infinite Moment · Sleepers of Mars · The Best of John Wyndham · Wanderers of Time · Exiles on Asperus · No Place like Earth |
Filmography |
Feature films: The Day of the Triffids (1962 film) · Village of the Damned (1960 film) · Village of the Damned (1995 film) |
Radio |
Radio adaptations: The Day of the Triffids (radio) · The Chrysalids (radio) |
Television |
TV adaptations: The Day of the Triffids (TV series) · Chocky (TV series) · Random Quest |