Indirection

"Indirection" by Everett B. Cole is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the life of Elwar Forell, who uses his talent for storytelling to weave tales that hold deeper truths and suggest hidden realities about extraterrestrial beings and their potential influence on humanity. The blend of fantasy and science fiction presents the challenges Forell faces as he grapples with his purpose while maintaining the secrecy of a much larger cosmic narrative. In "Indirection," Elwar Forell is a young man living in a primitive society, secretly trained by a scholar who possesses advanced knowledge and technology. When drought threatens his community, Elwar's curiosity leads him to inadvertently invoke forces beyond his understanding, resulting in chaotic consequences. As various galactic entities become aware of the situation, they recognize the potential threat of this primitive culture gaining too much knowledge of the cosmos. Elwar is then thrust into a larger purpose where he must craft stories that promote cooperation and a beneficial perception of advanced beings, all while obscuring the truth of their existence. The narrative unfolds as Forell navigates his dual identity as both a storyteller and a being of importance in the cosmic order.