Philippe Chambas
asked
Naomi Novik:
Looking in to the future of this universe If they did Billed Air planes like craft What do you think it might look like? And would the Dragon's Be big fans or upset at the intrusion to there air space? Love your Books Thank you.
Naomi Novik
I think Temeraire dragons would hate airplanes and would conversely be utterly delighted by balloons and zeppelins, although not to the satisfaction of the passengers, since the dragons would try and play with them. Also the interaction between firebreathers and any hydrogen-based aircraft would be short and lamentable.
My suspicion is that in the Temeraire universe, the future of aviation looks very different than in our own -- I haven't worked out in my head exactly what it would be, but I suspect that aircraft would at least initially end up built up *around* dragons, out of progressive enhancements that would allow dragons to carry more people, fly further distances, work in concert to fire bigger weapons, etc. Smaller incremental changes are easier to make, so if you've already got a dragon to start with, you'd probably worry less about getting off the ground, and more about being more effective in the air. You might eventually get around to "replacing" the dragon inside, but I suspect not until roughly the same time we get around to replacing the people inside cars.
My suspicion is that in the Temeraire universe, the future of aviation looks very different than in our own -- I haven't worked out in my head exactly what it would be, but I suspect that aircraft would at least initially end up built up *around* dragons, out of progressive enhancements that would allow dragons to carry more people, fly further distances, work in concert to fire bigger weapons, etc. Smaller incremental changes are easier to make, so if you've already got a dragon to start with, you'd probably worry less about getting off the ground, and more about being more effective in the air. You might eventually get around to "replacing" the dragon inside, but I suspect not until roughly the same time we get around to replacing the people inside cars.
More Answered Questions
Matthew Green
asked
Naomi Novik:
In the Temeraire books, you touch on theological and philosophical questions; and you bring up the RIGHT questions, and refer to the kinds of answers that would actually be proposed by theologians and philosophers. (I have studied and taught philosophy and theology.) Have you studied these topics personally, or did you ask others who were well informed to give you ideas? (Either way, great job!)
Lois
asked
Naomi Novik:
I am just wild about Temeraire! I found you because Barnes and Noble offered book I, His Majesty's Dragon for 1.99. Because I am a dragon fan, I took a chance. I have read every book and can't wait for the next. I am hoping for romance, real romance for Captain Will and for reconciliation with his parents! When do we look for book ten? Lois
Naomi Novik
35,441 followers
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