Setting
The narrative unfolds against the stark, desolate backdrop of the lunar surface and within the confines of a space station, abandoned and forgotten over the passage of time. Decades past, a grim plague swept through the station, claiming every soul—or so it was assumed. A flickering camera feed shatters this belief, revealing a young girl and a group of dogs meandering through the empty halls. The station's computer tirelessly endeavors to nurture the girl, engaging her in daily tasks. She tends to repairs and cares for her canine companions. The enigma deepens as questions linger about how she and the dogs have defied the deadly disease that annihilated all others who dared approach. As Tango Charlie and Foxtrot Romeo unfolds, the chilling truth emerges that the station is destined to plummet towards the moon.
On the lunar surface, events transpire across various locales where characters, through the eyes of surveillance cameras, strive to watch over the girl, reach out to her, and deliberate her destiny. Humanity's presence on the moon is long established, complete with the conveniences of a thriving civilization—entertainment venues, governmental hubs, and bustling commerce. Amidst this, bureaucrats coldly calculate the tragic fate awaiting the lone young girl.
Literary Qualities
Tango Charlie and Foxtrot Romeo unfurls like a poignant theatrical tragedy. In such dramatic tales, the storyline steers inexorably towards disaster, often culminating in death for the protagonist. While Bach lives, her journey spirals into misfortune, with Charlie meeting his end. Much like a classic tragedy, Varley orchestrates the plot with distinct movements that overshadow the narrative. Consider Shakespeare’s Hamlet, with its trio of essential arcs: a spectral tale unveiling the ghost of the slain king; a mystery, as Prince Hamlet seeks the truth behind his father’s demise; and a revenge saga, culminating in Hamlet's confrontation with his malevolent uncle. Similarly, Tango Charlie and Foxtrot Romeo unfolds in three acts: initially, a mystery as Bach and her companions delve into the secrets of who inhabits the space station Tango Charlie; next, a moral exploration testing the characters' ethical boundaries in the quest to resolve the crisis around Charlie; and finally, a suspense-laden struggle to rescue Charlie from her doomed fate. These layers invite readers to delve deep into the characters' psyches. For example, during the mystery phase, Bach reveals her sharp intellect; in the moral chapter, she demonstrates profound emotional depth despite her superficial romantic entanglements; and in the climactic suspense act, she exhibits steadfastness and human frailties—ultimately unable to save the child.
By weaving scenes between Bach and Charlie, Varley crafts an intimate portrait of the young girl. Initially, Charlie meets the mystery of her existence with annoyance—a spirited child burdened with too much to entertain strangers. As she bonds with Bach, she grapples with solitude and the heartache of loved ones lost. Once, it was a puppy; now, she confronts the stark truth of her mother's demise. Her bravery appears innate; Varley paints her with precise strokes, her literal responses giving depth and believability to her character, even as she confronts trials that might overwhelm many adults. When she extends her trust to Bach, Charlie achieves a maturity surpassing even the aiding adults. She has faced the eternal human dilemma of mortality and conquered her fear of death.
Profound tragedies often delve into universal themes, rendering them relatable and deeply human through their narratives. Tango Charlie and Foxtrot Romeo embodies this tradition, marking it as a noteworthy literary piece. If there is a discordant note in this tragic symphony, it is Bach’s apparent stagnation. Her sorrow dissipates with time, only for her to entangle herself...
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with yet another robust figure. Yet, the woman who reconciled herself to being the senior recruit in the police force unearths within herself the determination to uphold justice against formidable odds, and the bravery to stake her future for someone as vulnerable as Charlie.
For Further Reference
Exploring Varley's Career and Influence
Beetz, Kirk H. "John Varley." In Popular World Fiction: 1900-Present. Edited by Walton Beacham and Suzanne Niemeyer. Washington, DC: Beacham Publishing, 1987:1578-1588. This work delivers a thorough exploration of Varley's illustrious career and the critical acclaim that has accompanied it. Delve deeply into his masterpieces such as The Ophiuchi Hotline, Titan, and "Press Enter" through detailed analyses.
A Glimpse into Varley's Early Days
Clute, John. "Varley, John (Herbert)." In The Science Fiction Encyclopedia. Edited by Peter Nicholls, et al. New York: Dolphin Books, 1979: 628. Offers a concise yet insightful glance into the formative years of Varley's journey in the realm of science fiction.
Accolades and Acclaim
"Varley, John." In Contemporary Authors. New Revision Series. Vol. 25. Edited by Hal May and Deborah A. Straub, et al. Detroit: Gale Research, 1989: 458-460. This entry presents an overview of the glowing praises Varley has garnered, highlighting the critical acclaim that has consistently followed his work.
Thematic and Stylistic Explorations
"Varley, John." In Reader's Guide to Twentieth-Century Science Fiction. Edited by Marilyn P. Fletcher. Chicago: American Library Association, 1989. Furnishes primarily with plot overviews of Varley's stories, yet also pauses to ponder the thematic and stylistic fingerprints that define his creations.
