25 pages 50 minutes read

Isaac Asimov

The Last Question

Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1956

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Essay Topics

1.

How does Isaac Asimov use the recurring motif of “The stars blinked” (3) to convey the theme of Entropy and the Inexorable Passage of Time in “The Last Question”? Analyze its significance and evolution throughout the story.

2.

In “The Last Question,” the central question, “Can entropy ever be reversed?” serves as a catalyst for the narrative. How does this question shape the characters’ actions and the overarching themes of the story? Explore the role of inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge in the plot.

3.

The quote, “Let there be light” (1), represents a moment of profound transformation and hope in the story. How does Asimov use symbolism, specifically the concept of light, to convey themes of knowledge, enlightenment, and the potential for rebirth? Examine its significance in the narrative.

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