Second Coming: Extending the Entertainment

Does life exist elsewhere in the universe?

In the novel, Paul Genet tells his story to the abbot of a monastery he seeks to join. After Paul finishes, the abbot asks Paul questions to further help decide whether to admit him or not. Here, Paul answers the question on everyone's lips today. —Editor

Abbot: Does self-aware, intelligent life exist elsewhere in the universe?

Paul: Yes, if balance requires it. However, once may be enough to satisfy balance. Apply Ockham's razor—the simplest explanation with the fewest assumptions is best—and we are it.

Balance as the operating principle of the novel's universe

‘Second Coming’ protagonist, Paul Genet, answers questions about his universe:

What is time?

Why is there something rather than nothing?

What is the true nature of existence?

Has the Universe been replaced by a Multiverse?

Does God exist in the balanced universe of Paul Genet?

Is the universe a computer?

Will there ever be a coherent theory of quantum gravity?

Are superstrings the theory of everything?

Is Schrödinger's cat both alive and dead in a balanced quantum universe?

What is memory?

What is the origin of language?