The Embedding
by Ian Watson, Gollancz

Ian Watson, a renowned British science fiction novelist with over 20 published works, sadly passed away in April 2023. Although less known today, his groundbreaking debut novel, The Embedding, was widely praised upon its release in 1973; audience described it as “the most spectacular thing since stellar science fiction.” Watson’s subsequent creations spanned both science fiction and fantasy genres, including contributions to the Warhammer 40,000 universe and work on Stanley Kubrick’s AI: Artificial Intelligence.

Admittedly, as a science fiction critic, I was unaware of Watson’s work until his recent passing. I decided to explore his most recognized novel first.

The Embedding explores first contact through the lens of linguistics. The protagonist, Chris, experiments on children at a UK research institute to study the effects of growing up with a constructed language influenced by the poet Raymond Roussel. Chris’s hypothesis posits that language fundamentally shapes our perception of reality, potentially unlocking novel insights into the universe. Simultaneously, in the Amazon rainforest, Chris’s former friend Pierre investigates the Zemahoa people.

The Zemahoa possess two distinct languages: A and B, with the latter requiring local medicinal aid for articulation and comprehension. This aligns with several concepts of the “embedded” language Chris is studying in the UK. Unfortunately, U.S. contractors are threatening to encroach upon the tribes’ ancestral lands.

Amid this backdrop, aliens arrive on Earth searching for living human brains to contribute to their research on languages that could unveil new realities. Naturally, they are intrigued by Chris and Pierre’s endeavors.

If you enjoy science fiction that delves into profound philosophical themes, The Embedding may be a perfect fit. However, for those who prefer cozy sci-fi, a heads-up: the characters are notably flawed.

Chris conducts harsh experiments on children while Pierre engages in morally dubious relationships in the Amazon. The Zemahoa react to the environmental threat by confining pregnant women and using significant amounts of local drugs, leading to dire consequences. The aliens’ quest for human brains is echoed by indifferent government officials. Essentially, the protagonists may seem absent in their own story, but this narrative choice serves a purpose.

It’s crucial to note that this book reflects its era. Language and attitudes that might have been deemed acceptable in early 1970s Britain can now come off as blatantly racist.

Additionally, much of the literature from that time, including this novel, predominantly centers on male perspectives, often reducing women and girls to mere plot devices.

Nevertheless, The Embedding emerges as a thought-provoking work. I am eager to explore some of Watson’s later fantasy writing. Highly recommended!

I Also Recommend Emily…

Book:
Arrival
by Ted Chiang

This exceptional short story collection, including the tale that inspired the acclaimed film Arrival, was originally published as Stories of Your Life and Others. Chiang’s exploration of alien perspectives on time and language resonates with some themes found in The Embedding.

Emily H. Wilson is the author of the Sumerians series (Inanna, Gilgamesh, and Ninshbar, all published by Titan) and is currently crafting her first science fiction novel. A former editor at New Scientist, you can follow her on Instagram @emilyhwilson1.