I’m currently reading through the Dune series of books by Frank Herbert (and later continued by his son). There is a substance in that universe called “melange” or “spice”. It has the effect of prolonging life, and imparting prescience to certain users. It permeates every planet in the universe as everyone is hooked on it to some degree or another. It’s largely benign as far as side effects go, and it is basically the central hub around which the entire universal economy turns.

We also have Spice here on Earth. Unfortunately, it’s not beneficial, it doesn’t prolong life and it is far far from benign.

Continue reading The Spice Must Flow →