Background
Published in 2015, “Perfect State” is a science fiction novella by Brandon Sanderson set in a world where humans are little more than brains in jars. Each live in individual, tailored simulation designed to offer them rule over their own “state,” essentially becoming a god within their virtual realm. We follow the God-Emperor Kairominas, an all-powerful ruler in his own domain, adept in both sorcery and technology. However, his perfect life is disrupted when he is required to meet with a woman from another state for the purpose of procreation. This meeting is crashed by his nemesis Melhi forcing Kai to confront his own mortality.
My Thoughts
This was a fun short read. The idea itself was similar to the Matrix without much of an explanation. However, I enjoyed the general malaise Kai found himself in after centuries of ruling everything and only dealing in simulations. “The Wode”, the creator of his simulation and possibly all others, likes to mix things up when the occupants start getting bored. Sanderson leaves the reader wondering if what happened was truly his nemesis or just another simulation. The door was left wide open to build on the story.
Recommendation
A good short read which can stand on its own.