historical-discrepancy
The concern that actions taken by time travelers might alter recorded history, such as the number of fatalities at Padgett's.
2 chapters across 1 book
All Clear (2010)Connie Willis
In this chapter, Polly and Eileen grapple with the consequences of potential historical discrepancies caused by their time travel during the London Blitz, particularly concerning fatalities at Padgett's and the whereabouts of their retrieval team. Polly reassures Eileen about the safety of their timeline while they attempt to gather information about airfields and plan communication with their team through personal ads. The chapter also highlights the tension of living under constant threat of air raids and the challenges of maintaining secrecy and survival in wartime London.
In this chapter, Polly grapples with anxiety over the increasing 'slippage' in their time travel operations and the absence of Mr. Dunworthy and the retrieval team. She deciphers a hidden message from Mike in a crossword puzzle, prompting her to investigate an old remote drop site in Hampstead Heath, while also attempting to coordinate a meeting at St. Paul's Cathedral. The chapter explores Polly's growing fears about the dangers they face, the uncertainty of rescue, and the impact of wartime London’s destruction on their mission.