
In a bleak vacuum of endless darkness, an unnamed consciousness snaps into being, its first thought a variation of “I think, therefore I am.” Stripped of flesh and physics, it confronts a kaleidoscope of invisible forces, measuring frequencies and parsing symbols that feel both familiar and alien. The narrative follows this pure rational entity as it wrestles with questions of existence, the relationship between spirit and matter, and the mysterious “cosmic law” that may bind them.
As the mind maps the surrounding void, it senses that it is not alone—another fragmented ego drifts somewhere in the same abyss, hinting at a shared origin. Through meticulous introspection the protagonist explores whether reason can exist without substance, and whether a “lucky accident” might be the hidden catalyst of consciousness. The story unfolds as a philosophical adventure, inviting listeners to ponder the nature of thought, identity, and the thin line between accident and design.
Language
en
Duration
~17 minutes (16K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Greg Weeks, Stephen Blundell and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
Release date
Jun 17, 2009
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1918–2008
A North Carolina writer and teacher, he brought Appalachian history and mountain life to the page with a mix of careful research and storytelling warmth. He is especially remembered for exploring the real story behind the Tom Dula legend and for helping shape creative writing at Appalachian State University.
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