Solaris. Stories and Reflections Inspired by Andrei Tarkowsky's movie

By Michael F. Housel, Andrew Coulthard, Sarah Walker, and more

2025

First Published

346

Number of Pages

10H30M

Audio Length

Few films in the history of cinema have achieved the haunting, meditative power of Andrei Tarkovsky’s Solaris (1972). This masterpiece of science fiction transcends the genre’s typical preoccupation with technology and speculative futures, reaching instead into the depths of human consciousness, memory, and the aching poetry of the unknown. Adapted from Stanisław Lem’s novel of the same name (in turn, one of the greatest masterpieces of speculative science fiction narrative), Solaris eschews the cold rationalism of many sci-fi narratives in favor of a contemplative, almost mystical exploration of grief, love, and the elusive nature of reality. At the heart of the film is the enigmatic ocean of the planet Solaris, a sentient and inscrutable entity that manifests the subconscious fears and desires of the scientists who orbit it. To honor this masterpiece Eighth Tower proudly presents the anthology “ Stories and Reflections Inspired by Andrei Tarkovsky's movie”. This collection brings together nine original science fiction stories by contemporary authors, each inspired by the themes and atmosphere of the Russian director’s iconic work. These narratives reimagine the haunting and enigmatic universe of Solaris, offering fresh perspectives on the human psyche, the limits of understanding, and the infinite mysteries of the cosmos. In addition to these imaginative tales, the anthology includes a compelling non-fiction section. Here, an insightful article provides an overview of the film’s enduring cultural and cinematic impact, while a thought-provoking philosophical essay delves into its core themes, such as the nature of memory, the concept of identity, and humanity’s relationship with the unknown. Together, these pieces explore Tarkovsky’s meditative and deeply introspective vision, shedding light on why Solaris remains one of the most profound works of science fiction cinema. Whether you are a devoted fan of Tarkovsky’s work or new to the film’s fascinating universe, “ Stories and Reflections” offers a thought-provoking journey into the realms of imagination, philosophy, and the enigmatic beauty of the unexplored.

Authors

Sarah Walker (born 1965) is an Australian author and screenwriter. There is more than one author with this name.

Simon Bleaken lives in Wiltshire in the United Kingdom. He presently writes short stories, particularly in the horror, fantasy and sci-fi genres. His work has appeared in Lovecraft’s Disciples; Strange Sorcery; Tales of the Talisman; Lovecraftiana; The Horror Zine; Schlock! Webzine; Dark Dossier; Beneath the Moons of Zandor; Demons of Zandor; Night Land (Japan) and on The NoSleep Podcast. He has also appeared in the anthologies: Eldritch Horrors: Dark Tales (2008); Space Horrors: Full-throttle Space Tales #4 (2010); Eldritch Embraces: Putting the Love Back in Lovecraft (2016); Kepler’s Cowboys (2017) Best Gay Romance 2015 (2015) The Shadow Over Doggerland (2022) The Horror Zine Magazine Summer 2022, and Twilight Madhouse vol. 2 (2017). His first collection of short stories: A Touch of Silence & Other Tales was released in 2017, followed by The Basement of Dreams & Other Tales in 2019, and Within the Flames & Other Stories in 2021. Outside of writing, his interests include Egyptology and ancient history. He is also a member of The Horror Writers Association, The Pagan Federation, OBOD (The Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids), The Druid Network, The Egypt Society of Bristol and The H P Lovecraft Historical Society.