Hilarious. Devastating. Perfect.

The writing in this translation flows really nicely. A good allegory for the flaws of utilitarianism. You can't quantify life experience without  truly knowing one's inner life. But I felt the story was altogether kind of empty and ultimately disappointing. 

I like the plot, good twist/reveal at the end but I didn't really care about the main character. Also disappointing lack of description of the speculative technology used in the story. I almost would say it shouldn't even count as science fiction. 

The title doesn't let you down. If you came for some old man and some sea, by George you'll get it.