Although it is usually represented as a simple comedic
science-fiction story, Douglas Adams used The Hitchhiker's Guide to the
Galaxy as a satire on modern life, much like Swift's Gulliver's
Travels. Many aspects of the story echo current-day issues in England, like
the impossible bureaucracy of the Vogons or the position of Zaphod as figurehead instead
of having real power (the Royal Family).
"I think the ship's brand new," said
Ford.
"How can you tell?" asked Arthur. "Have you got some
exotic device for measuring the age of metal?"
"No, I just
found this sales brochure lying on the floor."
(Adams, The
Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Google
Books)
Just like in reality,
sales is important, and so a possible science-fiction explanation for the newness of the
ship is replaced by a sales brochure with glossy photos and ad copy. Sometimes, a new
spaceship is just a new spaceship. If there is a specific subtext, it
could be boiled down to read: "Life is often absurd; we have little
ability to cause great change; instead, worry about yourself, your own happiness, and
the effect you have on friends and family, because they are more important to you than
any world events." (subjective interpretation: Belarafon)
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