Thorns

"Thorns" plunges into the morally murky depths of media manipulation, showcasing Robert Silverberg's prescient understanding of how sensationalism can be cultivated from human suffering. The narrative centers on Duncan Chalk, a ruthless media mogul who views people like Minner Burris and Lona Kelvin not as individuals, but as raw material for his insatiable need for public consumption. Burris, a space traveler whose alien reconstruction has left him with a body irrevocably altered, and Kelvin, a woman discarded after her reproductive utility was exhausted, represent the ultimate fodder for Chalk's perverse vision. He meticulously orchestrates their lives, anticipating the immense audience eager to witness the volatile intersection of their profound pain and the possibility of connection. This novel earns its place among Robert Silverberg's best for its unflinching exploration of the ethical compromises inherent in the pursuit of profit and attention, a theme that resonates powerfully even decades after its initial publication in 1967. Silverberg masterfully crafts a chilling vision of a future where empathy is a commodity and exploitation is an art form, all viewed through the lens of Chalk's Machiavellian machinations. "Thorns" is a testament to Silverberg's ability to craft intelligent, thought-provoking science fiction that grapples with complex societal issues, making it a compelling and enduring work that solidifies his reputation as a literary giant.