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The Edge of the Knife: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition

The Edge of the Knife: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

Published by Pop Culture Files••2 min read•Automatically generated · review not guaranteed
AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject
AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject

The Edge of the Knife is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Piper, H. Beam (1904–1964).

Catalogue synopsis

Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:

"The Edge of the Knife" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novella likely written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around Edward Chalmers, a history professor with the ability to foresee future events. The story addresses themes of precognition and the repercussions of knowledge about future events, particularly in the context of political upheaval and assassination. In the plot, Chalmers inadvertently reveals his knowledge of Khalid ib'n Hussein's upcoming assassination during a history lecture. This incident leads to significant turmoil for him professionally, as he faces accusations of madness from college administrators and skepticism from his peers. As events unfold, Khalid is indeed assassinated, validating Chalmers' foresight but also complicating his life as a professor. In a twist of fate, the story explores how knowledge of the future can be both a gift and a burden, ultimately leading Chalmers to confront his sanity and the implications of his abilities in a world rife with political tension.

Book and edition facts

  • Title: The Edge of the Knife
  • Author credits: Piper, H. Beam (1904–1964)
  • Catalogue language: English

Catalogue subjects

  • Science fiction

Gutenberg collections

  • Category: Novels
  • Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
  • Science Fiction

Read this edition

View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.

Source notes

Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.

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