R.I.P. JG Ballard

One of the most influencial writers of my youth was JG Ballard who today at the age of 78 passed away.  For those of you unfamiliar with his work, which was often mischaracterized as science-fiction, he explored what he considered to be likely futures for human beings based on our natural and psychological tendencies.  My favorite of his was "Chronopolis", about a young boy living in a society that has revolted against the concept of time, who's most treasured posession is an ilegal wristwatch. If you've not read Ballard, I strongly urge you to give him a read.


Here's a BBC write-up and video worth watching.  http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/8007331.stm