Abstract:
Atlas Factorial is a metaphysical, episodic adventure novel loosely retelling the Greek
myth of the Titan Atlas. Atlas, in this adaptation, has been floating for an eternity in the
vacuum of space carrying the world upon his back when Hercules arrives and requests his
help in collecting the Golden Apples from the Garden of the Hesperides, a trio of sunlight
nymphs who are Atlas’s daughters. To get there, the duo must first pass through endless,
compartmentalized Voids that house various iterations of figures from Greek mythology.
As Atlas and Hercules explore these Voids, they encounter alternate-universe versions of
Atlas, many of whom are derived from conflicting depictions of him in surviving
historical records. As Atlas faces paradox after paradox, he must construct his own
identity, whether as revolutionary or oppressor, thinker or feeler. However, when he gets
a taste of fatherhood, he is forced to decide once and for all to follow the path laid out for
him or abandon fate for his family.
