My journey through the forest of the all time greatest works of speculative fiction continued these last two weeks with Dan Simmons’ Hyperion (1989). I have to say, I was pretty intrigued reading about the author and this particular series. I absolutely love it when a writer decides to use previous structures of iconic literature as a framework, and then adapt and build and integrate in a unique and impressive way. I did this myself in IMAGO, using Dante’s Inferno as a semi-structure. This is what makes great art, great art. Simmons chooses the Canterbury Tales as his model (storytelling characters on their way to the shrine of Thomas a Becket). In like fashion, these pilgrims are on their way to the mysterious and terrifying planet of Hyperion where the mythical Shrike and its worshipers await them. The Shrike is the god of death, a being beyond time that kills all who come before it.
What makes Simmons’ novel so impressive is the fact that the stories within the story are so compelling, and each storyteller’s voice so unique in tone and style, that they become nearly self contained. But using such a frame is like juggling chainsaws, because at any moment one of those spinning blades can slice your whole story to ribbons and leave the reader confused, disappointed and… a one time reader.
If you have not read book one in the Hyperion Cantos, then I highly recommend this one. I can’t wait to get the next one. This is an oldie but a goody, and well deserved in the top 100 list of the greatest works of speculative fiction.
Greg Belliveau 