A Deepness in the Sky (Zones of Thought, #2)

by Vernor Vinge

science fiction for people who like to think, science fiction that illuminates the human condition, and at the same time tremendously readable and fun.

Each civilization has its time. Each science has its limits. And each of us must die, living less than half a thousand years. If you truly understand those limits … then you are ready to grow up, to know what counts.”

If you avoided all other threats, the complexity of your own successes would eventually get you.

a slave revolt could really happen—if the slaves were taken from their work!