Neuromancer setting

“The Japanese had already forgotten more neurosurgery than the Chinese had ever known. The black clinics of Chiba were the cutting edge, whole bodies of technique supplanted monthly, and still they couldn’t repair the damage he’s suffered in that Memphis hotel.” (Pg. 4) Early Gibson gives us many clues to the setting of the Science Fiction novel “Neuromancer.” Initially, the story of Case begins in Chiba City, Japan. There are many cultural references to Japan, such as “the towering hologram logo of the Fuji Electric Company” (pg. 6) and Kirin Beer that quickly orient the reader to this location. This passage makes both Chiba and Case seem very sinister and leaves us uncomfortable and untrusting of both. Already we know that Case has a shady past and that something occurred that left him debilitated. Also, Chiba “black clinics” sounds darkly mysterious, but is most likely the reason that Case is in Chiba.

We are also quick to pick up that this novel is written in the future. “She held out her hands, palms up, the white fingers slightly spread, and with a barely audible click, ten double-edged, four centimeter scalpel blades slid from their housing beneath the burgundy nails.” (Pg. 26) Not only is the time period obvious, but now we also know some of the capabilities technically and biologically that exist. If switchblades can be implanted in nails, nerves spliced, and the matrix made tangible; then this world is in many respects a different place entirely than when the book was written. As readers, we are anxious and apprehensive, but also intrigued because we know that the possibilities are almost limitless.

This passage is also an example of how Gibson prefers to “show” us rather than “tell” us about the settings, characters, and other plot developing aspects. We are told Case’s story from the 3rd person subjective point of view, which allows us to understand Case’s thoughts. Gibson often uses dialogue, Case’s memories, or events to help us as readers learn more, especially about details of Case’s past. Case is very complicated, so when necessary Gibson gives us details though narration to make is less complicated.