Picks and Shovels (Martin Hench, #3) – A Dive into the ‘80s Tech Boom
Ever since I stumbled upon Cory Doctorow’s work, I’ve found myself drawn into the fascinating and often bewildering world of technology and its implications. So, when Picks and Shovels landed in my hands, I felt a mix of excitement and nostalgia—it’s the third installment in the Martin Hench series, and it brings us to the critical dawn of Enshittification.
Set against the backdrop of San Francisco during the vibrant 1980s tech boom, Picks and Shovels immerses us into Hench’s journey from a floundering MIT freshman to a budding accountant navigating the tumultuous waters of a new personal computer startup. Doctorow masterfully encapsulates the idealism and entrepreneurial spirit of the time, but he doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of corporate rivalry and fraud.
One of the tale’s key themes revolves around the ideological battle in the tech world—the dichotomy between those who envision technology as a tool for liberation versus those who wield it for control. As Hench steps into this dynamic environment, you feel the palpable tension, underscored by Doctorow’s knack for weaving history with fiction. This intersection of technology and ethics resonates strongly with me, especially today, as we grapple with similar issues in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Doctorow’s writing has an engaging clarity that’s both informative and entertaining. However, I couldn’t help but notice a few pacing issues; the first sections tend to drag a bit, almost like the tortoise in a race. While the depth and detail are appreciated, some parts felt laden with extraneous information that could have been streamlined. That said, if you enjoy the dense, info-rich style typically found in Doctorow’s work, you might see this as a strength rather than a weakness.
The characters, particularly Hench’s eclectic group of friends and foes, bring life to the narrative. His friendships, especially with the tech-savvy Art, and the complexities of his romantic interests reflect a relatable vulnerability that adds depth to his character. Yet, I found myself wishing for more room to explore the nuances of these relationships, given Doctorow’s penchant for well-crafted dialogue.
One of my favorite moments occurred when Hench, reflecting on his life choices amid the chaos surrounding the startup, mentions the beauty of spreadsheets, comparing them to a form of art. It’s a reminder of how technology can trigger creativity, albeit amidst the harsh realities of competition.
In conclusion, Picks and Shovels is a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the interplay of technology, morality, and history. It’s especially relevant for those who, like myself, grew up alongside the rise of technology, mirroring their own pursuits with the fervor of the 1980s boom. If you’re a fan of Doctorow or just someone curious about the period’s culture, this book will likely resonate with you. For me, it was a nostalgic trip, blending personal reflection with an insightful critique of an era that continues to shape our technological landscape today.
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