The State of the Art (TSOTA) is not a novel: it’s a collection of stories, but written by one of science fiction’s foremost writer of space operas and weird science fiction you can’t go wrong with this collection that tests the limits of our humanity and morality with its comparisons to otherworldly forces, aliens, beliefs.

The longest, main, story is The State of the Art, about the character Linter who decides he wants to stay on Earth despite the protests of Sma. They’re both from the culture, and mutual liking is indicated in their unflowered relationship, but unfortunately, against all reason, Linter wants to stay on Earth rather than choose the more sensible option of returning to the advanced civilisation of the Culture. Linter actually likes the news, cafes, operas, shows, and all the primitive human creations we take for granted but which the Culture look down on as petty distractions. And, crucially, he’s willing to risk his happiness against the dangers that can appear on Earth: crimes, wars, mortality.

I didn’t enjoy all of the stories – some were nonsensical and obtuse – but I will say there are some gems in this collection: A Gift From The Culture, Descendent, The State of the Art. Some reviewers commented on how they prefer the author’s epic longer works, but I’m inclined to disagree in some cases as at least if you don’t like some of the stories in this collection there are others to read.