In so many respects Fiasco is a novel of the future. It vibrates with the forceful impact of new science; it offers an exciting new perspective on the human race and its history; it speculates on the possible paths to which our future may lead us. Yet underneath this cloak of futuristic speculation lies the sad and twisted Earth of today.

1. In what respects could the mission to Quinta be considered a success, and in what respects is it a failure?

2. At which point do you think the scientists could/should have desisted from enforcing contact, leaving Quinta to its fate?

3. In the style of narration and apparent subject matter the two interpolated adventure stories are in contrast to the rest of the story. What role do they play in its overall structure?

4. Did you find the author's technique of double projection into the future&mdash...