〈영어로 읽는 SF소설 _ 키스 라우머의 지구에서 온 미치광이〉
The Madman From Earth“는 키스 라우머(Keith Laumer)가 1962년에 출판한 공상과학 소설로, 외계 행성 Groac에 주재하는 영사 Retief의 이야기다.
이 소설은 폐쇄적인 외계 문명 속에서 그들과 화합하려는 인간 외교관의 고군분투를 그리고 있다. 호기심 많고 직설적인 Retief의 행동은 외계인들을 당황시키지만, 한편으로 양 행성 간의 오해와 갈등을 해소할 실마리가 될 것으로 추측된다.
〈A science fiction novel read in English The Madman From Earth by Keith Laumer 〉
“The Madman From Earth” is a science fiction novel published in 1962 by Keith Laumer that tells the story of Retief, a consul stationed on the alien planet Groac.
This novel depicts the struggle of a human diplomat trying to reconcile with a closed alien civilization. Retief's curious and straightforward behavior puzzles the aliens, but it is also presumed that it will be a clue to resolving misunderstandings and conflicts between the two planets.
Summary
You don't have to be crazy to be an earth diplomat?but on Groac it sure helps!
Retief is told by his administrative assistant, Miss Meuhl, that he cannot refuse Culture Minister Groac's invitation. However, since he was exhausted from being mobilized for various cultural events recently, he decided to politely decline the invitation.
Instead, he asks questions about the whereabouts of the missing Earth Cruiser and the past coup d'?tat on Groac. However, Miss Meuhl dissuades them, saying that these sensitive topics could harm the relationship between the two planets.
Retief goes outside, saying he will go to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs archives, but the archives staff refuses access to the aliens and informs them that access to the records is not possible.
While walking down the street, Retief goes into the Groac bar and tries to drink, but the owner hesitates, saying that if he sells alcohol to an alien, he will be caught by the police...
