Exploring the Quirky Future: Paul B. Rainey’s ‘There’s No Time Like the Present’

In an imaginative twist on science fiction, author Paul B. Rainey presents ‘There’s No Time Like the Present’, where a trio of quirky characters navigate the complexities of life in Milton Keynes, a town once hailed as a vision of the future. Set against the backdrop of an innovative ‘ultranet’, these misfits—Barry, Cliff, and Kelly—attempt to escape their mundane existences by experiencing future TV shows. The book, which was initially released in 2015, is receiving renewed attention in light of Rainey’s rising profile as a graphic novelist.

Characters Stuck in Time

• Barry: A lazy yet resourceful character who sells bootleg future TV shows. He remains in the same childhood home with his parents.
• Cliff: Barry’s better-intentioned friend who secretly longs for Kelly yet lives in a platonic arrangement with her.
• Kelly: A yogurt-addicted individual trying to escape her dull job, she also indulges in the future episodes provided by Barry.

A Comedy of Everyday Life

Rainey skillfully intertwines the fantastical with the mundane in this work, offering a unique exploration of:

• The struggle of adults clinging to childhood comforts.
• A blend of sci-fi elements with the realism of everyday job challenges.
• Humor arising from awkward social dynamics and aspirations.

As Kelly seeks an escape from her job through the ultranet, Rainey expertly depicts the randomness and unpredictability of time—qualities that resonate with any reader familiar with the nuances of daily life.

Paul B. Rainey’s Evolving Career

Originally published in 2015, ‘There’s No Time Like the Present’ has gained traction following Rainey’s recent success, including:

• Winning the Observer/Faber graphic short story prize in 2020.
• The release of his graphic novel ‘Why Don’t You Love Me?’ in 2023, which Jennifer Lawrence is set to adapt into a feature film.
• A beautiful new edition of his earlier work being published by Drawn & Quarterly, which ties back to the book’s themes of nostalgia and the future.

A Note on Representation

While the novel offers a comedic take on loneliness and inadequacy, some readers may find certain attitudes toward women depicted by male characters troublesome. However, the richness of Rainey’s unique storytelling makes it a worthwhile read.

In conclusion, ‘There’s No Time Like the Present’ serves not just as a portal to the future but also as a mirror reflecting the complexities of human relationships, ambition, and escapism. It’s a captivating testament to Rainey’s singular imagination, making it a remarkable addition to the genre of speculative fiction.

Keywords: Paul B. Rainey, There’s No Time Like the Present, science fiction, ultranet, Milton Keynes, graphic novel, Observer award, comedy, future TV shows, character dynamics

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