The Best Made Plans - B. Cole Everett

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Résumé :
The Best Made Plans is a riveting science fiction short tale written by Everett B. Cole, who is well-known for his contributions to science fiction literature's golden age. The tale delves beyond the complex dynamics of human psychology and interplanetary diplomacy. The narrative takes place in a future where Earth is part of a massive galactic federation. Earth diplomats are sent on a mission to negotiate with an alien civilization known as the Venuskans. The talks are intended to gain access to a rare mineral that the Earth desperately needs. Everett B. Cole delves skillfully into the complexity of diplomacy, highlighting the cultural differences and misunderstandings that develop when two species try to communicate and create a mutually beneficial agreement. The story takes an unexpected turn when the diplomats discover the Venuskans' unusual decision-making technique. The Best Made Plans, as the title suggests, illustrates the story's major theme: the unpredictability of human and alien behavior, despite thorough planning and diplomacy. Cole masterfully weaves together concepts of psychology, negotiation, and interplanetary politics to produce a thought-provoking story. This short The short stories calls readers' ideas about diplomacy and human nature into question. It also demonstrates Cole's ability to weave intriguing storylines that delve into the complexities of human-alien interactions, making it a compelling contribution to the canon of great science fiction literature.

Biographie:
Everett B. Cole (1910-2001) was a professional soldier and a writer of science fiction short tales. He fought at Omaha Beach during WWII and retired in 1960 as a signal maintenance and property officer at Fort Douglas, Utah. He earned a bachelor's degree in math and physics and went on to teach math, physics, and chemistry at Yorktown High School in Texas. In 1951, his debut science fiction story, Philosophical Corps, appeared in the journal Astounding. Gnome Press published The Philosophical Corps, a reworked version of the story and two others, in 1962. The Best Made Plans, a second novel, was serialized in Astounding in 1959 but never released as a book. He also co-wrote two volumes about the history of south Texas.