The Steps of the Sun

The Steps of the Sun is a 1983 science fiction novel by the American author Walter Tevis. It is about a future energy crisis, and a world in which China has become the leading superpower.

Literary reference
The title is taken from William Blake's poem, "Ah! Sun-flower":

Ah Sun-flower! weary of time, Who countest the steps of the Sun Seeking after that sweet golden clime Where the travellers journey is done.

Reception
Reviewer Dave Langford said, "Well written and characterized, this has an old-fashioned feel despite up-to-date lack of inhibitions." Dave Pringle's review said "I found this an irritating book, implausible, overlong, outdated and would-be risque."

Reviews

 * Review by Faren Miller (1983) in Locus, #273 October 1983
 * Review by Brian Stableford (1984) in Foundation, #30 March 1984
 * Review by Tom Easton (1984) in Analog Science Fiction/Science Fact, May 1984
 * Review by David Barrett (1984) in Vector 121
 * Review by David Pettus (1985) in Thrust, #22, Summer 1985