Ringworld and The Colbert Report


I was just watching the Colbert Report, likely a rerun from yesterday if not earlier. Stephen Colbert was interviewing an art expert. I don't recall what prompted the comment, but Colbert made a non-sequiter along the lines of, " . . . like sunflowers that reflect the sun's rays and burn you."

The guest and audience made no sound, apparently at a loss over Colbert's reference. And then, on with the interview.

Being the Larry Niven fan I am, and knowing Colbert's reputation as someone steeped in science fiction, D&D, and similar esoterica, I immediately wondered if he was referring to the sunflowers of Niven's Ringworld, which act just as Colbert describes, but in numbers so vast that they scorch continents at a time. That would be quite an obscure reference, if true. And also quite cool.

So, Stephen, if you're reading this, is that what you were thinking of when you talked about sunflowers that burn? :-)


Posted: Tue - July 24, 2007 at 09:35 PM          

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