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Downbelow Station

C.J. Cherryh

Hugo 1982

Wonderful story about peace-loving aliens and their human supporters caught in the middle of a gigantic power struggle between Earth, new colonized worlds in the vast Beyond and a warrior fleet with questionable allegiance.

The friendly, indigenous Downers on the world Pell find their place among humans with non-violence and loyalty. The Ghandian strength in this approach contrasts with the empty power of human forces with vast resources and weapons.

Struggle and hardship continue throughout the story but it doesn't become oppressive - a spark of hope survives seemingly complete disasters. Difficulties and temptations highlight character and ethics as well as the lack thereof.

An interesting sub-plot explores the beneficial influence of commercial business on politics and war. As summarized in a later document written as a Union (the alliance of non-Earth planets) history, "Trade and common interests have proven, in the end, more powerful in human affairs than all the warships ever launched." It's an optimistic thought and one that in our own world we can all hope is also possible.

The conclusion of Downbelow Station sets the stage for the 1989 Hugo winner, Cyteen.

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