Perdido Street Station
Date
2000
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Pan Books
Abstract
In the city of New Crobuzon dwell all manner of sentient beings, forming a diverse metropolis that is characterized by its steampunk aesthetic. Perdido Street Station follows scientist Isaac Dan der Grimnebulin in his quest to give his client Yagharek the ability to fly. In his laboratory, Isaac finds himself studying the biology of all kinds of avian creatures to understand the mechanics of flight, which also involves the study of physics, so he can build functional wings for his client. This quest takes Isaac to multiple parts of the city, from the dumpster that is the home of the Construct Council, an artificial intelligence that is connected to all robots around New Crobuzon, to the university where Isaac meets other scientists like him. In the city can also be seen those who have been subjected to Remaking, a practice that consists of biologically changing and mutilating human beings as penalty for their crimes. The novel, portraying a steampunk scenario, describes a city filled with scientific and technological progress, from the train lines that converge on Perdido Street Station to the chimneys that fill the skies with its industrial smoke.
Description
Keywords
steampunk , industry , technology , biology , scientist
Citation
Miéville, China. Perdido Street Station. Pan Books, 2000.