In Red Mars, why did Frank want to kill John?

I know he was jealous about Maya, but the book implied some political reason that wasn't ever explained, to my recollection.

Answer

There were two main reasons, I think. First, Frank and John had political differences in how they viewed the proper evolution of humanity on Mars. Oversimplifying greatly, John wanted to leave Earth behind and create a New Mars Human while Frank felt that this was utopian nonsense and that Mars must engage politically with Earth to assure a good future for Mars. Secondly, Frank was jealous of John. John was the First Man on Mars -- Neil Armstrong, John Glenn and Chuck Yeager combined -- as well as being a charismatic leader. John stood politically in Frank's way.

Oh, yes. There's also the love triangle with Maya Toitovna...

Which reason predominated? I think that's something each reader needs to decide on their own, as Frank is a decidedly complex character in a complex situation. KSR is a good enough writer that he doesn't tell us the answer.

Comments

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