Omniscience: [n] The quality of having unlimited knowledge: - By Irénéé Strauss

Written By: Irénéé Strauss

Category: Sci-FI, Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

We are honored to feature "Omniscience: [n] The quality of having unlimited knowledge:" by Irénéé Strauss in the Sci-Fi, Short Story category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This competition celebrates creative talents from around the world, and Strauss's work stands out for its exploration of a futuristic society shaped by technology. The narrative probes the profound effects of Omniscience, a revolutionary information chip, on human individuality and thought, raising timeless questions about the cost of technological advancement.

About the Work

Strauss's short story delves into a world where knowledge is instantly accessible, yet individuality is sacrificed. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, the narrative follows Astyrinx, who grapples with the unforeseen consequences of her creation, Omniscience. The story artfully questions the impact of technology on human uniqueness and the value of independent thought. With its thought-provoking message, the piece challenges readers to consider the balance between innovation and personal identity.

Omniscience: [n] The quality of having unlimited knowledge:

Original Submission by Irénéé Strauss

Omniscience: [n] The quality of having unlimited knowledge:

An endless sea of people, each face illuminated by the bright lights of their Omniscience, stood before her. Astyrinx’s* eyes gazed across each face, trying to gauge what they were thinking. Although, that task proved rather difficult when each face held the same expression

She was seated near one of the last remaining cafés from the time before Omniscience. It was strange to think that there once was a time before her creation. Astyrinx took a sip of her coffee, remembering how ecstatic she felt when the program worked and Omniscience was born.

Omniscience, a little information chip implanted into humans that held enormous amounts of data — data so enormous nobody had to learn anything anymore. All the information anyone ever needed was within reach. With a few simple words, you could get the exact result you were searching for and have it sent straight to your brain.

That was the exact problem, wasn't it?

With the time before Omniscience, you never saw one person who looked or acted the same as the other. Children used to play independently, creating their own worlds solely based on imagination alone. Each child had their own unique personality and way of thinking.

Now… everyone shared the same ideas. Each person unanimously decided to conform, to believe everything that Omniscience gave them, not bothering to think past that information and form a conclusion for themselves.

Humanity has become disgustingly dependent on her creation.

Beneath all that pride, all that excitement, Astyrinx knew that because of her lust for knowledge, she had rid others of theirs.

However, responsibility was a taste she disliked. Despite her guilt, her shame, she knew she would not do anything. She would continue to avoid the uncomfortable truth that she had inadvertently caused humanity's fall.

And so, she would continue to watch.

Watch what she once created to aid humanity be used in a way she had not intended.

Watch how everyone became dependent on it.

Watch how eventually nobody would have a sense of personality or distinct thought.

*Pronounciation: Ass - ti-rynx

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that showcases diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. This competition invites participants to explore a wide array of themes, providing a global stage for writers to present their creative expressions and engage with a broad audience. It serves as a beacon for literary talent, fostering a vibrant community of writers and readers.

We extend our sincere thanks to Irénéé Strauss for sharing "Omniscience: [n] The quality of having unlimited knowledge:" with us. This compelling exploration of technology's impact on humanity is a significant contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. We appreciate Strauss's participation and look forward to seeing more of her thought-provoking work in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.