Speed of Dark
Speed of Dark (also published under the title The Speed of Dark) is a science fiction novel set in the near future, authored by American writer Elizabeth Moon. The narrative unfolds through the first-person viewpoint of an autistic bioinformatics expert. This work earned the Nebula Award for Best Novel in 2003 and was shortlisted for the Arthur C. Clarke Award.
Plot summary
Lou Arrendale, an autistic specialist in bioinformatics with exceptional pattern recognition abilities, works in a department predominantly staffed by individuals on the autism spectrum. Under pressure from a newly appointed manager, the team faces an experimental therapy intended to "cure" autism. Although Lou does not see himself as needing treatment, he confronts the possibility of losing his employment and accommodations if he declines.
Amidst this challenge, Lou maintains his professional responsibilities and participates in fencing with friends who are not autistic. Regular meetings among Lou and his autistic coworkers explore the decision to accept or reject the therapy, underscoring conflicts between corporate mandates and personal identity.
Reception
Speed of Dark garnered widespread praise from reviewers. SF Site described it as "at worst, a magnificent character study" and "at best, the most powerful book you'll read this year," while Infinity Plus hailed it as "an exceptionally rare novel with the power to alter one's worldview, making it a profoundly rewarding experience."
The Polish publication Nowa Fantastyka also featured a critique authored by Jacek Dukaj.