Ignorance In As The Unbroken Spine

Will Durant once said “knowledge is the eye of desire and can become the pilot of the soul” (BrainyQuote). Knowledge is information, understanding, or skill that an individual gets from experience or education. In Mr. Penumbra’s 24 Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan, there is ongoing conflict between old knowledge and new knowledge which can be seen through the major characters and their roles within the novel. Evidence of ignorance towards old knowledge is shown by looking at the character of Corvina. His lack of adaption to new knowledge sets backs his discoveries and growth in the new generation. In contrast, ignorance toward old knowledge is exhibited through Kat in her obsession with technology and her inability to go back to the foundation

Yet, his ignorance towards the use of technology in order to unlock the key sets back their discovery for hundreds of years. When Penumbra makes a case of using computers to unlock Manutius codex vitae, Corvina is in disagreement: “we use chalk and slate, ink and paper […] Corvina believes we must adhere to their techniques exactly. He believe that if we change anything at all, we will forfeit our prize” (148). The ability to break from what’s known and adapt to the unknown, Corvina’s inability to break traditions leads to the big question being unanswered for hundred of years. As a representer of the older generation, Corvina’s lack of acceptance of new information inhibits his growth and the ability to strive in the new generation. When Penumbra begins to stock other books at the bookstore, Corvina is angered by this and refuses to support the store: “no it cannot continue[…] Not filled with books that have nothing to do with our work. Not overflowing with people who know nothing about our responsibility” (151). Corvina truly embodies old knowledge; unfortunately, forfeiting the ability to accept or learn new knowledge. His close-mindedness towards learning the unknown inhibits his growth in the present age. Overall, his inability to adapt to new knowledge causes him to remain static and not evolve

Penumbra’s 24 Hour Bookstore, Penumbra’s goal is to motivate his members to unlock Manutius’s codex vitae. In contrast to Corvina, he has the ability to adapt to new knowledge that goes beyond what has been taught through the Unbroken Spine. As Penumbra encourages the use of technology in the fellowship, he states: “computers, my boy[…] They hold the key for us[…] If computers can help you solve the Founder’s Puzzle, they can do much more for this fellowship” (Sloan 130). Yet having no prior knowledge for technology and perceived as as old fashioned, Penumbra evolves to new knowledge as he begins to understand the benefits of using technology and how it creates