The Tree of Possibilities, a collection of twenty short stories by Bernard Werber, offers a fascinating dive into the world of the French philosophy-fiction author. Published by Albin Michel on October 1, 2002, this book presents a diverse range of stories exploring themes from dystopia to the exploration of human consciousness.

Even though the book was published over 20 years ago, it’s surprising, yet disappointing, that the issues addressed in the various short stories are still relevant today.

An illuminating preface

Above all, the stories are preceded by a very useful preface. In it, Bernard Werber explains how he finds his inspiration, the source of his imagination, and provides us with what I believe to be an essential key to understanding these short stories.

The preface ends with Bernard telling us “I’d love to be at your side to tell them (the stories) in the hollow of your ear.” Indeed, with his soft, steady voice, it would be so nice if he could tell us about his creations in person, but that’s another story.

Short stories overview

From the outset, Werber establishes his mastery of narrative diversity with tales such as “Fragrances”, where a fragrant meteorite becomes the instrument for an astonishing intergalactic transaction. The theme of space exploration and extraterrestrial interaction is also present in “The Song of the Butterfly”, where the audacious Simon Katz discovers a society of Soliens living near the sun.

The collection skillfully delves into philosophical concepts, as seen in “The Absolute Hermit”, where a doctor withdraws from the physical world to explore the depths of consciousness, reminiscent of the influence of philosophy in Werber’s work.

The Tree of Possibilities itself, mentioned in a diary entry, becomes a powerful metaphor for exploring the different paths life can take. These stories offer a metaphysical reflection on choices and the possibilities that lie ahead for each individual.

Social critique is also evident in tales like “The Mystery of the Number”, where the limits imposed by a narrow view of the world are challenged. Werber uses the science fiction genre to explore contemporary issues, grounding his work in a deeper reflection on the human condition.

There’s also a story named “The Last Revolt” which offers some interesting social reflection. In the story, old people are put in centers for… euthanasia. Until they revolt! Considering today’s demographic problems and the aging of the population in some Western countries, it’s frightening to wonder whether such a story might not come close to reality one day. Could we really get to a point of dehumanizing people because of their age because of our social problems?

It would be too much to explore each of these short stories one by one, even though their themes are so profound and interesting. From the reversal of roles between humans and animals to the exploration of futuristic worlds, Bernard tells us about time travel, the creation of universes, talking objects, a world without light, and much more. Adopting a variety of points of view, the author always offers an original and sometimes humorous take on intriguing concepts.

By deploying diverse narratives, the book manages to captivate the reader while confronting them with thought-provoking ideas. Werber adeptly balances plot and philosophical reflection, providing a reading experience rich in intellectual stimulation.

Not just a book, but a project

With the book, the author has also created a website called the Tree of Possibilities. The site aims to explore the possible futures of humanity, whether pessimistic, neutral, or optimistic, in the short or long term. Users are encouraged to read the scenarios already proposed, create their own, and interact with existing ones to build the branches of the Tree of Possibilities together. Werber shows he is not content with merely telling stories but also seeks to stimulate active reflection on the future and the various paths reality could take. This interactive approach extends the book’s scope beyond its pages, inviting readers to engage more deeply in contemplating possible futures.

The Tree of Possibilities by Bernard Werber stands out for its narrative versatility, philosophical depth, and ability to address contemporary themes through the lens of science fiction. It is a collection that pushes the reader to explore the horizons of imagination and reflection, all while glimpsing the countless branches of the tree of possibilities.