Description. A description gives a picture in words of a character, object, or scene. Descriptions make use of sensory details—words and phrases that describe how things look, sound, smell, taste, or feel. In “The Ruum,” the author builds his description of the ruum over the course of the story. This technique helps to create suspense. As you read, watch for the sensory details that describe the ruum.
Suspense. Suspense is a feeling of anxiousness or curiosity. Writers create suspense by raising questions in the reader’s mind and by using details that create strong emotions. “The Ruum” is a science fiction story full of suspense. As you read, keep track of the growing suspense by filling in the following chart (one example is included). Note: Sometimes a scene will not call for responses in all of the columns.
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- Science Connection. As a science fiction story, “The Ruum” uses scientific discoveries or advanced technology—either real or imaginary—as a part of its plot. The story’s exposition, or introduction, is set in space millions of years ago during the earth’s “age of reptiles.” The rest of the story is set more or less in the present day on earth in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
- Arthur Porges, the author of this story, was a teacher of mathematics for many years. The main characters in his stories often face puzzles that involve mathematical reasoning and a sound grasp of physics. Pay close attention to numbers as you read “The Ruum.”
Through advances in technology, we have many computerized products, some of which are robotic, that perform “thinking” tasks. Could such inventions be harmful to people in any way? Support your opinion with specific reasons.
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