Trouble with Lichen – Summary
In “Trouble with Lichen”, John Wyndham presents a thought-provoking tale set in a near-future England. The story revolves around Diana Brackley, a brilliant biochemist who makes an extraordinary discovery: a rare lichen species capable of dramatically slowing the ageing process. This ground-breaking find promises to extend human life and youth significantly, but it also brings with it a host of ethical and societal challenges.
As Diana grapples with the implications of her discovery, she decides to keep it secret, fearing the consequences of its public revelation. She cleverly establishes a high-end beauty salon as a front for her clandestine operation, targeting the wives of England’s elite. Her plan is to create a network of powerful female allies who will support her when the truth eventually comes to light.
The narrative explores the ripple effects of this life-extending lichen on various aspects of society. As word of the treatment’s astonishing effects begins to spread, powerful men start to notice the inexplicable youth and beauty of their wives. The story delves into the reactions of different societal groups, from elation to despair, as people come to terms with the possibility of extended life.
Wyndham doesn’t shy away from addressing the complex societal challenges that would arise from such a discovery. He raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of marriage when lifespans extend to over two centuries, the impact on employment and overpopulation, and the very fabric of human relationships and identity.
The book also touches on themes of feminism and women’s empowerment. Diana’s character is portrayed as a revolutionary who aims to use her discovery to empower women. Her decision to primarily offer the treatment to influential women is a strategic move to create a shield of powerful female allies who can protect her project when it inevitably becomes public knowledge.
As the existence of the lichen is finally unveiled to the world, society is thrown into uproar. The narrative explores various reactions and the ensuing chaos as people struggle to come to terms with the ramifications of this life-altering discovery. Wyndham paints a vivid picture of a world grappling with the prospect of extended youth and the profound changes it would bring to social structures, relationships, and the very concept of human mortality.
Key Themes:
- Scientific ethics and responsibility
- Societal impact of life extension
- Feminism and women’s empowerment
- The nature of ageing and mortality
- Power dynamics and social structures
- The ethics of selective access to life-extending technology
Character Details
Diana Brackley
Diana Brackley is the brilliant and ambitious protagonist of the novel. A dedicated biochemist, she is considered unconventional for her time due to her prioritisation of her career over marriage, despite her attractiveness. Diana’s character embodies the spirit of a revolutionary and a feminist.
Her discovery of the life-extending properties of the lichen catapults her into a world of moral dilemmas and strategic decision-making. Diana’s choice to use her discovery to empower women, particularly by targeting influential women through her beauty clinic, showcases her shrewd understanding of societal power structures. She is driven by a vision of creating a class of powerful women who can protect her project and her dreams when the public inevitably demands control over the lichen.
Diana’s character development throughout the novel reflects her struggle with the weight of her discovery and her determination to control its impact on society. Her actions and decisions drive the plot forward, making her a compelling and multi-faceted protagonist.
Francis Saxover
Francis Saxover is Diana’s employer and fellow biochemist who also becomes aware of the lichen’s extraordinary properties. While specific details about Francis are limited in the search results, his role appears to be significant in the early stages of the discovery. His relationship with Diana and his reaction to the lichen’s potential would likely play a crucial part in the unfolding of the story.
Zephanie Saxover
Zephanie Saxover is mentioned as having made a good choice in her life partner, Richard. Unlike some other characters, Zephanie’s fiancé does not exploit her and agrees to receive the lichen implant at her request. However, their involvement leads to them being kidnapped and severely beaten as others attempt to discover the source of the lichenin.
Reader Fit
“Trouble with Lichen” would appeal to readers who enjoy thought-provoking science fiction that explores the societal implications of scientific discoveries. It’s particularly suited for those interested in:
- Speculative fiction that focuses on near-future scenarios
- Stories that explore ethical dilemmas in science
- Narratives that examine societal structures and power dynamics
- Feminist themes in science fiction
- Character-driven plots that delve into human nature and relationships
Fans of John Wyndham’s other works, such as “The Day of the Triffids” or “The Midwich Cuckoos”, will find familiar themes explored in a new context. The book is also likely to appeal to readers who enjoy classic British science fiction with a focus on social commentary.
Quick Facts
- Genre: Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction
- Publication Year: 1960
- Reading Time Estimate: Approximately 6-8 hours (based on average reading speed)
- Notable Awards: None mentioned in the search results
Related Books
- “The Chrysalids” by John Wyndham
- “On The Beach” by Nevil Shute
- “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood
