Judson Daniel Elliott III holds one of the most coveted, yet perilous, jobs imaginable: a Time Courier. His duty is to escort groups of eager tourists back through history, specifically to witness the destruction of Constantinople in 1453. The strictures of his profession are absolute – no interference, no personal entanglements, and certainly no meeting his past or future selves. These rules are enforced by terrifying deterrents, ensuring the integrity of the timeline. Judson is a model employee, meticulously adhering to the regulations, until he makes one fateful trip. In the vibrant, chaotic world of Byzantium, he encounters a captivating and unconventional Greek woman who challenges his perception of duty and destiny. Her influence, coupled with the inherent allure of altering history, pushes Judson to the brink of violating every principle he swore to uphold. 'Up the Line' delves into the tantalizing temptation of a man granted immense power over time, forcing him to confront the profound ethical implications of meddling with the past and the irresistible draw of a love that transcends eras.
Critical Reception
"Robert Silverberg's 'Up the Line' stands as a classic exploration of time travel ethics, lauded for its intricate paradoxes and compelling psychological depth within the science fiction canon."