The significance of a the presence of a Nova in the novel Nova by Samuel Delany, is likely due to the idea of newness. An actual nova is a dying or exploding star that causes a large explosion and is very dangerous. After a nova occurs we get this "new" area, like a black hole and more space. I think that Delany is trying to give the audience of newness to his novel through the advanced and futuristic world that he has created. In this world, there are robots, space crafts and more advanced fuels (Illyrion). All of these things are indicative of "newness". The use of Nova, as both the title and as a dangerous space explosion, is very interesting. I think that Delany is implying that while newness is exciting and interesting, it is also very dangerous and sensitive. In a nova, it is difficult to judge the timing and strength of it, as described in the novel, "'The actual time a nova takes to reach its peak intensity from the time it blows is a few hours'" (106). This shows how sensitive and scary a real nova can be. And I think that Delany is using the idea of a nova to describe newness of the future, pertaining to the new ideas and changes in society at the time this was written in 1968, like the Civil Rights Movements coming into play and how society deals with those changes. Also, Delany is calling attention to the frightening aspects of change. In the 60's there were still people who were prejudice and disapproving of the new laws, and in the novel Nova,a nova explosion is extremely dangerous and harmful to humanity. Delany is potentially trying to bring these ideas to the readers attention in order to realize that while change is positive and progressive, sometimes something new can be dangerous as well, especially for the people directly involved.
Another interesting idea surrounding the Nova star explosions, is that the word nova means "no go" in both French and Spanish. (This can be related to the poor sales of the cars from the 70's named Nova.) I feel like the use of the Nova and knowing the meaning of it in other languages could be Delany's response to newness in a way that is negative. He could be saying that he doesn't think that people should "go" to get the Illyrion, and that society should be careful and cautious when dealing with new and sensitive issues, like the Civil Rights Movements or the gathering of Illyrion!
Questions:
1. How much do you think Nova resembles a story similar to finding the Holy Grail? Do you think they are successful in their adventure?
2. Do you think Delany approves of the forward motion of society? What was happening at this time that made Delany write this book?
