Temporal Mechanics in Mandel’s Sea of Tranquility

Abstract

This research explores the logical and metaphysical possibilities of time travel, a concept that has long fascinated humanity. Central to this inquiry is the theory of closed world lines, which suggests that physical objects may trace self-contained temporal paths. Drawing on Verne’s scientific perspective and Mallet’s experimental work on time travel, the study examines the relevance of modern space-time theories—particularly relativity—which appear to allow models featuring closed world lines. The exploration of time travel challenges the understanding of the future and its potential consequences for human lives. A key text in this investigation is the novel Sea of Tranquility, which plays a pivotal role in addressing the complexities of time. The narrative weaves together past, present, and future through non-linear storytelling, touching upon concepts such as time dilation and the manipulation of temporal and spatial dimensions. The novel’s intricate depiction of temporal relationships offers valuable insights into the potential impact of futuristic technology on human lives and society. Through its exploration of time travel, Sea of Tranquility provides a nuanced portrayal of human experience in the modern world. The study also draws connections between science fiction and the real world, emphasizing the boundaries of innovation and the relentless human spirit that ventures into the unknown. Furthermore, it highlights how science fiction can serve as a metaphor for the dehumanizing and often chaotic effects of technology, as it threatens to consume human lives and blur the essence of reality. This research applies the theoretical frameworks of physics and philosophy to interpret and contextualise the narrative elements of Sea of Tranquillity, shedding light on the novel’s engagement with temporal dimensions and its thematic concerns. Ultimately, the study sheds light on the quest for understanding time and its profound implications for both characters and broader societal reflections within the novel.