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In 'The Midas Plague', set in a future of automated abundance, society grapples with the challenge of compulsory consumption to sustain the economy. Overproduction has created a world where citizens are obligated to consume vast quantities of goods, leading to absurd and often comical situations. The protagonist, Morey Fry, struggles under the burden of his consumption quota, hilariously highlighting the paradox of forced affluence. Pohl's satirical narrative explores themes of economic imbalance, consumerism, and the absurdity of a society overwhelmed by its own productivity. The story critiques the potential pitfalls of unchecked technological advancement and the importance of finding balance in resource management.

The Light of Other Days delves into the profound effects of wormhole technology, which enables people to observe any moment in time and space. This leads to a collapse of privacy and significant societal shifts, raising questions about the nature of humanity and truth. The novel examines how such technology could reshape our understanding of history and personal narratives.