In addition to his science-fiction work, Vance has also written several detective novels. Just as his fantasy stories explore human behavior and character, the detective work is interwoven with sociological themes. At his best he invites comparison with Utopian writers like Huxley and Orwell. As early as 1956, he was building a novel on the concept of cloning, but his real concern is how characters adjust to this radical scientific innovation. Since overpopulation is a central problem, only a few can be given the inoculations which prevent natural death.
Qualification is based on outstanding social achievement, usually in the arts and sciences.
As may be expected, competition is fierce. Everyone has an equal chance for immortality at birth. To opt for Amaranth is to devote virtually all one's time to study, with the likelihood of immortality statistically improbable. Regardless of whether one tries for immortality or not, when a citizen lives beyond the average age, determined by a giant actuarial computer, he can expect to be visited by an assassination squad assigned by the state. The desirable level of population is thus maintained.