"Snow Crash" is a science fiction novel penned by Neal Stephenson, published in 1992. Often categorized as cyberpunk and postcyberpunk, the novel blends elements of science fiction, satire, and dystopian fiction. The story envisions a near-future America where government functions are largely privatized and corporate entities wield significant power. The narrative follows Hiro Protagonist, a pizza delivery driver and hacker, as he investigates a mysterious computer virus and drug called "Snow Crash".
In the Metaverse, Hiro is a warrior prince, but in reality, he navigates a world of corporate franchises and autonomous city-states. Teaming up with Y.T., a skateboard courier, Hiro uncovers a conspiracy involving an ancient metavirus that manipulates language and threatens to bring about "infocalypse". The book explores themes of virtual reality, Sumerian mythology, linguistics, and the power of language. "Snow Crash" has approximately 480 to 576 pages, depending on the edition. While it was nominated for the British Science Fiction Award in 1993 and the Arthur C. Clarke Award in 1994, it did not win either award. Several attempts have been made to adapt "Snow Crash" into a film or television series, with projects announced involving directors like Joe Cornish, but as of yet, none have made it past pre-production.
