Toward Eternity A Novel by Anton Hur
In a near-future world, a new technological therapy is quickly eradicating cancer. The body's cells are entirely replaced with nanites-robot or android cells which not only cure those afflicted but leaves them virtually immortal.
Literary researcher Yonghun teaches an AI how to understand poetry & creates a living, thinking machine he names Panit, meaning Beloved, in honor of his husband. When Yonghun -himself a recipient of nanotherapy - mysteriously vanishes into thin air and then just as suddenly reappears, the event raises disturbing questions. What happened to Yonghun, and though he's returned, is he really himself anymore?
When Dr. Beeko, the scientist who holds the patent to the nanotherapy technology, learns of Panit, he transfers its consciousness from the machine into an android body, giving it freedom & life. As Yonghun, Panit, & other nano humans thrive-and begin to replicate-their development will lead them to a crossroads & a choice with existential consequences.
Exploring the nature of intelligence & the unexpected consequences of progress, the meaning of personhood & life, & what we really have to fear from technology & the future, Toward Eternity is a gorgeous, thought-provoking novel that challenges the notion of what makes us human-and how love survives even the end of that humanity.
Anton Hur has worked as an interpreter & translator for more than two decades, & in 2022, was double-longlisted and shortlisted for the International Booker Prize, the first translator of color to do so.