Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang

What is the Science Fiction Premise?

Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang is a novel about the survival of humanity in the face of the global collapse of civilization. In this instance a key aspect of survival in the face of decreasing fertility is the use of cloning to maintain the population.

Is the science of the premise explored?

The premise that civilization will collapse is not explored very deeply. Written in 1976, the novel relies on generalized fears about energy insecurity, uncontrolled pollution, and nuclear destruction. We are not even given a direct view of how these factors play out. Instead, we learn about them at a distance in a rural retreat, populated by a large, wealthy, and well-educated family. Due to the foresight of the family's leaders, it is sufficiently prepared to survive the collapse and its immediate aftermath.

As for the premise about cloning, we are greeted with much more scientific detail. We learn something of what is needed to carry out the procedure. We learn about the research needed to perfect the technique. And, we learn about the perils of cloning clones. All in all, the science around cloning, fertility, and biological issues is better addressed than why civilization has collapsed.

Is the impact of the premise on an individual explored?

Much of the story hinges on appreciating how the world perspective of those who are cloned differs from the perspective of those who are not. Both clones and non-clones are affected by the presence of the other in interesting and plausible ways.

Is the impact of the premise on society explored?

Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang is keenly interested in how society might adapt to the presence of clones. Of course, the society is also massively changed by the collapse of civilization, but this is not the key topic of the book. It is much more concerned with how clones might have a different sense of how society should operate.

How well written is the story?

I found Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang easy to read and quite engaging. It is a bit pensive at times and somewhat moody. This helps underscore the seriousness of the author's purpose.

Can I recommend the book?

If you are a student of serious Science Fiction that tries to make a point about the human condition, definitely read this book. Whether you agree with the author's perspective or not, you will find it well-presented and expressed.

If you are primarily interested in futuristic adventure stories, you will find Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang a bit slow moving. Read it anyway!

Tar Daddoo