Well World

Jack L Chalker

Well World is a fictional universe created by science fiction writer Jack L. Chalker. It is primarily featured in his series of novels known as the Well of Souls series. The Well World itself is a planet-sized supercomputer, designed and built by the ancient and mysterious race known as the Markovians. The planet functions both as a control mechanism for the operation of the universe and as a laboratory for the experimentation and evolution of new species.

Overview

The Well World is divided into thousands of hexagonal regions, each serving as a unique habitat for the various species that the Markovians have created or modified. These regions range from arid deserts to lush jungles, from high-tech environments to primitive wilderness, reflecting the vast diversity of life forms and cultures that the Markovians wished to study. The transitions between these hexes are often abrupt, leading to a patchwork of ecosystems and civilizations living in close proximity but in vastly different conditions.

The central premise of the Well World series revolves around the adventures of individuals who find themselves transported to the Well World, often becoming embroiled in its complex politics, intrigues, and the overarching mystery of the Markovians' disappearance. Characters frequently undergo transformations into other species as they cross from one hex to another, confronting not only the physical challenges of their new forms but also the philosophical and moral implications of their changed identities.

Plot and Themes

The series begins with the novel Midnight at the Well of Souls, where the protagonist, Nathan Brazil, discovers the Well World and its purpose. As the series progresses, readers are introduced to a wide array of characters, each with their own backstories and motivations for navigating the dangers and wonders of the Well World.

Themes of transformation, identity, and the nature of reality are explored throughout the series. Chalker uses the Well World as a narrative device to examine the human condition, posing questions about what defines an individual or a species, and whether these definitions are immutable or subject to change. The series also delves into the concept of predestination versus free will, with the Well World's control over the universe's laws and the characters' fates being a central point of contention.

Books in the Series

The Well of Souls series consists of several novels, including:

• Midnight at the Well of Souls
• Exiles at the Well of Souls
• Quest for the Well of Souls
• The Return of Nathan Brazil
• Twilight at the Well of Souls: The Legacy of Nathan Brazil

These novels are followed by additional books that expand on the universe and its characters, further exploring the mysteries of the Well World and the legacy of the Markovians.

Impact and Legacy

The Well World series has left a lasting impact on the science fiction genre, praised for its imaginative world-building, complex characters, and philosophical depth. Chalker's creation has been cited as an influence by subsequent generations of writers, and the series continues to be celebrated for its innovative approach to exploring themes of transformation and identity.