The story takes place on a planet where the inhabitants have developed a unique form of communication that involves reversing the order of words in sentences. The protagonist, a linguist, becomes embroiled in a conflict between rival factions vying for control of the planet's resources. As tensions escalate, the linguist discovers that the reversal of word order is not just a quirk of language, but a deliberate attempt to conceal information and manipulate public opinion. The protagonist must navigate this complex web of deceit and use their knowledge of language to uncover the truth and prevent a catastrophic war. The novel explores themes of communication, power, and the impact of technology on society, raising questions about the nature of reality and the role of language in shaping our perceptions of the world.
By H. Beam Piper · First published 1950 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Linguistics