David B Williams: You are right there about the value of exaggerated response. I was thinking more from a social perspective. That it's easier to remain on friendly basis if you say too much positive than if you say too much negative.



Steve Sherman: I found it hard to visualize the visits to the mining scenes, and blame that on hasty writing.

After the escape and landing, I believe Barch was reading the newspaper stating his heroics, and then he revisited the first location in the book.

The communication between Barch and Komeitk Lelianr, is among the most memorable parts, and very worthwhile. His self-preoccupied eager courting is curbed, and he painfully learns his lesson.
And I agree about the contrast between the hypercivilized society and the human (barbarian) society; the former is refined, but has lost its drive. Perhaps the most valuable thing I carry with me from this book, is Barch's fighting spirit, hard work, and of never giving up despite overbearing setbacks.