Amazon.co.uk: Black Easter, or Faust Aleph-Null (Penguin science fiction): James Blish: Books

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The Ultimate Role Reversal, 30 Jul 2005

By	C. Steiner "Casual Reviewer" (Nuneaton United Kingdom) - See all my reviews

In the first section of this originally two-parter novel Blish describes the progress of a literally unholy agreement between a black magician [Ware] and an arms manufacturer [Baines], that the former release the demons under his control for a period of 12 hours to wreak whatever destruction they so wish upon the earth and its population. The experiment goes out of control, the cause of which is shewn in a dreadful revelation. The second section details the subsequent journeys of the four main characters to the eventual denouement of the novel.
Blish's research into mediaeval writings on demonology is extensive and painstakingly thorough, its use providing a wholly convincing backdrop and ingredient to the characterisation and action - making the book both atmospheric and gripping. All manner of action takes place in this meeting of the modern world and the denizens of Hell.
His discourse, through the characters, about the nature of the battle between good and evil, provides ample material for those who value an intellectual facet to their readings.
Blish subtly posits the opinion by means of the narrative, that unconsidered assumptions about reality and belief are always dangerous.
I have read and returned to this book and its two companion novels [A Case Of Conscience and Doctor Mirabilis] for over thirty years now and still find fresh aspects to surprise and stimulate me.

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A little-known classic, 19 Oct 2007

By	Gareth Power - See all my reviews

Why is this book not more widely appreciated?

Superbly written, brilliant in conception, thoroughly researched, and providing a slant on reality the like of which I have never encountered anywhere else, Black Easter is one of the greatest "science fiction" books ever written.

Black magic and Cold War angst combine in a blackly humorous account of wizard Theron Ware, ennui-ridden arms dealer Baines, spiritually hollow Jack Ginsberg and self-deluding enemy of Hell Father Domenico, who are all wrapped up in the insane commission that will trigger the end of the world.

Black Easter is of a piece with its sequel The Day After Judgement, in which the four cross the Earth in the aftermath of Hell's conquest of Heaven. The satire becomes much more overt here, as the surviving US military forces consider their strategic options. Should they propose an alliance with Hell, since it seems the clear victor in the final war?

Arguably Blish's masterpiece.

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