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Seven years after his debut novel, The Middle Ages, Leonardo Cano returns with a timely and thought-provoking science fiction thriller, This is the Core (Gutenberg Galaxy). The novel, recently awarded the LV International Prize from Novela ciudad de Barbastro, plunges into a future where humanity achieves a form of immortality by transferring consciousness to a digital realm. this exploration of artificial intelligence, neural networks, the metaverse, and even Neuralink-style brain implants, is interwoven with a deeply human story.
Cano’s protagonist, a key figure in developing a groundbreaking algorithm, delves into his memories as he prepares for this digital transition. The novel masterfully blends cutting-edge technology with timeless themes of identity,memory,and the very essence of what it means to be human. It also tackles the societal implications of such advancements, including the potential political and social ramifications for those left behind by this technological leap.
In an interview, Cano addressed the seven-year gap between novels: ”I think I’m a slow writer,” he explained. “I like to mature ideas a lot. When I see authors releasing many books a year, I think they must have little work behind them (laughs). But if I see that there are six years behind it, I think it will be great. It’s a prejudice, of course. But that’s how I am: I work a lot before writing,I take a lot of notes,I reflect on them and then I work from drafts. I like to look at a draft, read it, think about how to improve it, make another version and another version and another version, until I believe that what reaches the reader is the best possible version.”
He further elaborated on his writing process, drawing a comparison to painting: “I think it was Borges who saeid that to publish was to stop correcting. I correct until the end, but it is true that there comes a point where you think that it is almost done, and what Oscar wilde said happens to you: ‘I spent the entire afternoon adding a comma that I removed the next day.’ Then, it’s finished.”
The novel’s prescience is striking. Cano revealed, “It may seem strange, but I had it in my head from the beginning.Eight years ago, artificial intelligence was something I was obsessed with.I remember that in the first draft there was mention of GPT, natural language processing. When I wrote it I thought: I don’t know whether to remove it as people won’t understand it. He also talked about geoffrey Hinton, the father of AI… and now they have given him the Nobel Prize.”
this is the Core is more than just a science fiction novel; it’s a gripping thriller that explores the human condition in the face of technological advancement. Its timely themes and compelling narrative make it a must-read for anyone interested in the future of humanity and the ever-evolving relationship between technology and the human experience.
In a recent interview, acclaimed author ricardo Cano delved into his latest novel, a thought-provoking exploration of the complex interplay between rapidly advancing technology and the enduring human experience. The novel, which tackles themes of artificial intelligence, transhumanism, and familial relationships, has already generated critically important buzz within literary circles.
When asked about science fiction influences on his work, Cano stated, “When I write, I stay away from other novels that may deal with the same topic.I have tried to keep it away from obvious influences.” However, he acknowledged inspiration from films like “Her” and ”ex Machina,” as well as Don Delillo’s “Zero K,” and extensive research into deep learning and transhumanism. He added, “But in terms of literary references, my treatment is that of my usual suspects: Michelle Houellebecq, Don Delillo, Virginie despentes, Marguerite Duras… those types of people who talk about what worries them, about what they suspect is behind the life that is seen with the naked eye.”
Cano believes that writers have a responsibility to engage with the rapidly changing technological landscape. He noted, “The future looks more and more like science fiction. The things we can think of happening five or ten years from now are…magic. There is a phrase by the scientist Edward Wilson that says that our problem is that we have paleolithic feelings, medieval institutions and technology of gods. The technology we have now, in 20 years will be paleolithic.”
While acknowledging concerns about potential dystopian outcomes, Cano remains optimistic. “No, I’m always optimistic,” he clarified. “My novel goes a little in another direction, but I am optimistic about technology and about the future. Things change. There are things that we see with concern, but perhaps the people who are locked in their house within the metaverse are… happy. the dystopia is within oneself, it is how one knows how to deal with technological advances and the future. If 30 years ago you said that today there are people who live at home watching series, ordering food at home and writing on the networks, many would have said that the present is dystopian.”
The novel also delves into the complexities of father-daughter relationships. Cano explained, “There is remorse on the part of the character, who has put aside his work as a father in order to achieve a prodigious achievement for humanity.It is indeed a topic that I am passionate about. I remember reading the statements of Stephen Hawking’s first wife, in which she said that he had been very cruel to her. The word he used was cruel. and I thought, surely there will be a lot of men and women in the world who have been terrible human beings, but who have achieved things that make us better. It’s a contradiction… disturbing. And you have to exploit it.”
In a lighter moment, when asked about bitcoin, Cano quipped, “Bitcoins are a gift that God has given to nerds for all the hardships they have suffered in their lives.”
Introduction:
Acclaimed novelist Ricardo Cano returns with his highly anticipated second novel,This is the Core,a captivating blend of science fiction thriller and poignant social commentary.We spoke with Cano to discuss the inspirations behind his timely novel and explore its themes of artificial intelligence, familial relationships, and the ever-evolving relationship between technology and humanity.
The Science Fiction of Today:
World Today News: Your novel delves into a future where consciousness can be transferred into a digital realm.What inspired you to explore this subject?
Ricardo Cano: I’ve been fascinated by artificial intelligence for years. Eight years ago, when I began writing This is the Core, the field was already making remarkable advancements. Concepts like GPT and the work of Geoffrey Hinton were on my mind. Now, to see Hinton receiving the Nobel Prize validates some of the ideas I was wrestling with
WTN:
The technology you depict in the novel feels remarkably prescient. Did you do extensive research for the book?
RC: Absolutely. I’m a firm believer that writers have a obligation to engage with the world around them, especially when technology is changing so rapidly.This novel is not just about techno-wizardry; it’s about what those advancements meen for our understanding of consciousness, memory, and even what it means to be human.
WTN: The novel also explores the potential societal impact of this technology, notably for those who might be left behind.Was this a deliberate focus for you?
RC: I believe it’s crucial to consider the ethical and social implications of these powerful technologies. we’re entering uncharted territory and need to ask these tough questions: Who benefits from these advancements? Who might be left behind?
FamilIy Ties and Human Connections
WTN: Alongside the science fiction elements, the novel powerfully portrays the complexities of a father-daughter relationship.What prompted you to weave this theme into the story?
RC: I wanted to explore the sacrifices people make in the pursuit of groundbreaking achievements. The protagonist is consumed by his work, driven by a desire to leave a legacy. But in doing so, he neglects his relationship with his daughter. It’s a reminder that technology shouldn’t come at the expense of our moast significant human connections.
The Craft of Writing:
WTN: Your last novel, The Middle Ages, was published seven years ago. What can you tell us about your writing process?
RC: I consider myself a slow writer. I like to let ideas simmer for a long time. I take copious notes, spend a lot of time reflecting, and constantly experiment with different drafts. Some might think it’s an extensive process,but for me,it’s essential to ensure that what reaches the reader is the best possible version of the story.
WTN: Do you ever feel the pressure to release books more frequently?
RC: Honestly, yes, sometimes. But then I remind myself that literature isn’t a race. It’s about crafting stories that resonate with readers on a deep level.
Looking Ahead:
WTN: With the novel’s exploration of cutting-edge technology and its probing examination of the human condition, what message do you hope readers will take away from This is the Core?
RC: I hope readers are left contemplating the possibilities and perils of our rapidly changing world.What dose it mean to be human in a world increasingly shaped by technology? It’s a question we all need to grapple with.
