Speculative fiction is old; older than ancient Greek mythology, older than religion. Ancient peoples huddled around campfires, no doubt entertained one another with speculation through stories and fables, and attempted to rationalize the things by which they were mystified.
This collection of stories has no different purpose. When an author speculates about such things as the cosmos, spirituality, and the future of humanity, it is a continuation of ancient rites and pastimes that predate civilization -- and maybe even the written word.
