The Absolute at Large

About “The Absolute at Large”

Karel Čapek wrote the science fiction novel Továrna na absolutno in 1922. It was translated into English and published in 1927 as The Absolute at Large. The story is a satirical exploration of society, capitalism, and religion. It begins with the invention of an "atomic engine" in 1943, which converts matter directly into energy. The engine powers machinery for months from a small amount of coal. However, the inventor discovers that the engine produces pure divinity as a waste product. This leads to unexpected societal complications as the engines become widespread. The novel uses irony and sharp commentary to examine human behavior and institutions.