Továrna Na Absolutno [The Absolute at Large].

Capek, Karel

Published by Polygraphie, Brno, 1922

About this Item

First edition of this biting science-fiction satire by a major Czech modernist. Capek s plot is set in motion by an invention. A new carburetor uses nuclear fission to create clean, cheap energy, but also releases a byproduct of "Absolute," a "God particle" that produces an intense spiritual experience. Capek explores the unexpected pairing of limitless energy and unrestrained inspiration with black humor: "There have been some serious cases of enlightenment." The climax of the book reflects the cynicism produced by World War I, as an absurd Great War breaks out between competing religious groups: "you should not listen to those people when they proudly say what they lived through was the greatest war of all time. We all know, of course, that in a few decades time we will manage to create a war which is even greater." The novel is illustrated by Karel Capek s brother Josef, an important modernist illustrator and book designer. The two brothers were central members of the Czech avant-garde between the wars: their intellectual circle promoted the modern renaissance of written Czech, publishing works like Továrna Na Absolutno in the vernacular rather than German. Josef Capek would die in a concentration camp in 1945, victim of an "eveOriginal green cloth with gilt decorations, design by the author s brother Josef, spine lettered in gilt, text block, all edges marbled. Title page printed in blue and black, twenty full-page black and white illustrations (included in collation). Capek s most famous play, R.U.R., introduced the word "robot" to the world. Text in Czech. A near-fine copy with light foxing to a few pages, boards with tiny dings. First edition of this important early science-fiction satire. Seller Inventory # 275546

Bibliographic Details

Title: Továrna Na Absolutno [The Absolute at Large].

Publisher: Polygraphie, Brno

Publication Date: 1922

Binding: Hardcover

Illustrator: Josef Capek

Condition: Near fine

Edition: First edition.

Book Type: book