Character description in fiction is a fundamental element, serving as the gateway to the beginning of a story. In almost any written work, unless it’s an abstract short story, some form of character introduction is essential. Now consider the challenge of describing alien beings. Describing a human-like figure, or a person from a particular era, may be relatively straightforward. Even if your character comes from a fantastical realm, you’re drawing from existing thoughts to shape them. However, when you are creating an alien life form, the task becomes quite different.
That is why I find them the most amusing of the other characters, as long as they are well written. Fortunately, science fiction literature has given us a wide variety of alien creatures, each of which offers a glimpse into the boundless realms of the imagination. I would like to write about them in this article, as I have recently realised that they are some of my favourite novels.
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“The War of the Worlds” by Herbert George Wells
In Wells’ iconic novel, Martians arrive on Earth with malevolent intent, their towering tripods and heat-ray weapons striking terror into the hearts of humanity. Described as octopus-like creatures with vast intellects and advanced technology, the Martians exemplify the fear of the unknown that often accompanies first contact scenarios. Wells’ portrayal shows the vulnerability of humanity in the face of technologically superior beings, a theme that echoes throughout the story.
A fun fact about this book is that when it was read as a radio broadcast, people thought it was real because Wells wrote it like a diary in the first person. Needless to say, people panicked a lot.
“Childhood’s End” by Sir Arthur Charles Clarke
Clarke’s Overlords in “Childhood’s End” take a very different approach. They have the appearance of the medieval era devil. These mysterious aliens come not as conquerors but as benevolent overseers. They wish to remain secret and communicate through a human intermediary. As the story evolves, it becomes clear that their intentions are profound, leading humanity to a utopian existence. Clarke’s portrayal challenges traditional notions of alien intervention, raising questions about the price of progress and the nature of evolution.
I still remember the time I spent reading this book. My experience was truly remarkable and it remains one of my all-time favourites. Creating a utopia in a dystopian setting is a formidable task, made even more difficult when attempted with the help of unknown alien beings. This book has also been adapted into a three-part series.
“The Man Who Fell to Earth” by Walter Tevis
Tevis’ novel introduces us to Thomas Jerome Newton, an alien stranded on Earth. Newton’s appearance is indistinguishable from that of a human, allowing him to blend in seamlessly. The uniqueness here lies in the subtlety of the alien, highlighting the potential for them to walk among us unnoticed. Newton’s struggle to adapt to Earth’s environment and his longing for home bring a poignant depth to the character, offering an exploration of isolation and the human condition.
Another fascinating angle to explore in the realm of aliens is the concept of them coexisting with us, introducing revolutionary technologies beyond our imagination, or providing us with awe-inspiring experiences. Frankly, David Bowie’s existence and portrayal in the film adds a fantastic dimension to the discussion.
“Stranger in a Strange Land” by Robert Anson Heinlein
Valentine Michael Smith, a human raised by Martians on Mars, is introduced in Heinlein’s book. Smith’s viewpoint on Earth and humanity enables the author to analyze societal structures, customs, and beliefs of people from a foreign perspective. Using Smith as a vehicle for cultural criticism, Heinlein explores issues related to religion, sexuality, and power structures in human society through the prism of the extraterrestrial protagonist for a cultural criticism.
It took me a while to finish because the book was really difficult for me at the time, but the satisfaction was unmatched. Definitely a masterwork in my opinion. I was so intrigued by the story’s degree of detail that as soon as I finished reading it, I started researching extraterrestrial life. But I quickly discovered that producing such fine detail requires a more extensive expertise base.
“The Mote in God’s Eye” by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle
The Moties are presented in this collaborative work as a sophisticated and varied extraterrestrial species. The Moties are divided into different castes, such as the Warriors, Engineers, and Mediators, each of whom is skilled in a certain duty. Their culture is given complexity by this intriguing social system, which also fosters a dynamic relationship with humans as they negotiate the difficulties of interstellar travel. The representation by Niven and Pournelle explores the intricacies of trust, communication, and the unanticipated effects of extraterrestrial encounter.
Once again, a substantial novel to enjoy. What distinguishes this one is the collaborative authorship by two persons. It continuously piqued my interest in the experience of co-writing a story. Among the books I mentioned, this one was the most captivating. It took me several months to finish because it was a much longer book than others, but the journey was nothing short of thrilling. I definitely intend to revisit it when I have some free time.
“Arrival” by Ted Chiang
The Heptapod aliens in “Arrival” violate conventional concepts of time and language. These seven-limbed aliens communicate using complicated circular symbols to express concepts that transcend linear time. Their distinct approach to language has a significant impact on the story’s narrative framework, as linguist Louise Banks seeks to interpret their enigmatic communications. Chiang’s representation delves into the intricate ways in which communication and perception influence our view of reality.
I chose to watch the movie adaption first. However, I am excited to devote some time to Chiang’s entire collection of novels when the occasion arises. And it had a lasting impression on me when I watched. The linguist and word geek in me found its investigation of etymology and language both enjoyable and remarkable.
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