Initially conceptualized for the November 1956 issue of Science Fiction Quarterly, Asimov's "The Last Question" was written with few edits in a short amount of time. It is arguably his most famous and most acclaimed short story; in addition, Asimov himself considers it his personal favorite short story of his own authorship.
The narrative centers around an advanced computer, entitled Multivac, that is utilized to resolve mankind's numerous queries. Provided a seemingly limitless power source, Multivac itself is inquired numerous times if mankind can replenish this "endless" energy. With each instance the question is passed, the story hurtles hundreds of years into the future, thereby allowing Multivac to advance and provide another, more calculated answer. An incredibly thought provoking fiction that encompasses mankind, their actions, and how they impact the very universe they inhabit, Asimov delves into the very heart of what was, what is, and what is to be.
Isaac Asimov
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