Re: Those Spiky Things

In message <199706292023.VAA12002@gate.flexnet.net>
	  jon@gzero.dungeon.com (Ground Zero Games) wrote:

> >Alternatively I could nip across to a certain-other-universe,
> >borrow their universal translator, and stick on some English
> >translations. For this I'm leaning towards using Culture-style
> >names (as in Iain M Banks). Things like "Peace is Not An Option"
> >or "Forever Seeking Solitude".
> >
> >Anyone got any thoughts on the matter?
> 
> Hmmm... well, the Sa'vasku ships are supposed to be alive, and
probably
> semi-sentient in their own right (the "crew" are themselves
bio-constructs,
> probably symbiotic with the ship, so whether the "crew" or ship are
> actually in charge is a moot point). So, I guess the name of a ship
may
> REALLY be its name - if you are translating into english, they could
be
> Fred or Eric......

That's why the Culture sprung to mind - Culture Ships are
controlled by a Mind, and are considered to be sentient
beings in their own right (just several million times
more knowledgeable, intelligent and crafty than humans).
The name of the Culture ship is the name of its Mind.
(the crew are realy just along for the ride, and rarely
serve any useful function).

> (If you are not translating, then maybe it would be
> Thhhruppslart**vrtt$fleepboing...)
> 
> Jon (GZG) - not in a terribly serious frame of mind tonight... :)

The best frame of mind to be in, I always thought :)

-- 
Be seeing you,
Sam.