Catalyst Destiny - Review of the Novel by J. G. Ballard

Catalyst Destiny - Review of the Novel by J. G. BallardThe Catalyst Destiny 2, written by J. G. Ballard, is a highly anticipated science fiction novel. It presents a compelling set of alternate futures based on the secrets that are revealed in the first book. Following is a synopsis of the plot as it is presented in the book.In the first Catalyst Destiny, J. G. Ballard introduces the reader to the protagonist, John Barlow. He is a professor of physics, an expert in research on the structure of the universe. There are several projects he is involved with, including one that involves preparing a device that will bring communication to some of the extra-terrestrial civilizations. He is the one who eventually discovers the secret that allows him to open the door.After the discovery of the reason for the doorway, however, Barlow is imprisoned by his fellow scientists for continuing the project. His entire life is turned upside down by this revelation. He has also been forced to confront h is deepest fears about the nature of the universe, and his responsibility to others.In the second book, Ballard presents the question of what happens when this same discovery occurs again, and Barlow is not around to participate. After all, the first character was able to unravel the mystery of the secret, but the second character can't find it herself.As the story continues, we learn that Barlow was actually made aware of the secret of how the universe works through a visit from the future, as part of his study of quantum physics. The first visit was centuries in the future, when he was still alive. On the second visit, she gave him a list of questions that would help to define the nature of reality.The concept travels back and forth through time, each time developing a unique meaning for the character. In the end, he comes to realize that the answer to the question, 'What is the nature of reality?' is unknown, because there are no records to help us define it.Although Barlow has p ut a stop to his research, he soon realizes that he needs to continue it. He must reach out to those civilizations that remain uncultured and accommodated by science and technology. His love for his wife, and for the future of humanity, make him realize that this is the only way that the planet will ever have a chance at survival.After reading Catalyst Destiny, I found it to be one of the best SF novels that I have ever read. The trilogy is available in eBook format.