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Science Fiction

The Difference Engine

William Gibson, Bruce Sterling
1 min read·eng. The Difference Engine · 1990
Summary by the Litseller editorial team.·Date of publication: 26 February 2025·Updated: 14 November 2026
Interesting Facts

Interesting Facts

  • The book is considered one of the first examples of the steampunk genre, combining elements of the Victorian era and science fiction.
  • The novel is set in an alternate history where Charles Babbage completed his Analytical Engine, leading to a computer revolution in the 19th century.
  • The book explores themes of technology's impact on society and politics, as well as issues of class inequality and power.
  • The novel includes numerous historical figures, such as Lord Byron and John Keats, who play significant roles in the alternate universe.
  • The book was nominated for the Arthur C. Clarke Award and the British Science Fiction Association Award.
The Difference Engine
Date of publication: 26 February 2025
Updated: 14 November 2026
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Authors: 
William Gibson, Bruce Sterling
Original title: eng. The Difference Engine · 1990
Content: 
Prepared by the Litseller editorial team. Our goal is to share concise, accurate, and valuable book notes for personal growth and education.
Reviewed by the Litseller editorial team before publication, and checked against the book itself. Editorial policy
This material is prepared for educational purposes and is not a reproduction of the original text. We do not use protected elements of the work (text, structure, unique scenes).
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