totipotent-programs

The chit given to Hackworth is a totipotent program that can generate physical objects when run on sufficiently large matter compilers.

1 chapter across 1 book

The Diamond Age (1996)Neal Stephenson

Chapter 57

In this chapter, Hackworth arrives in Vancouver and receives a mysterious chit from Dr. X containing a matter compiler program and a newly compiled chevaline, a mechanical mount programmed to transport him. He explores the multicultural cityscape of Vancouver, reflects on the movements of the original Young Lady's Illustrated Primer, and communicates with Lord Finkle-McGraw about the Primer's possible current possessor. The chapter ends with Hackworth riding the chevaline, named Kidnapper, which autonomously takes him toward an unknown destination.