Interesting. My own personal take on the technology of AS is that it was set in the 30’s and is a commentary on the inevitable outcome of New Deal type policies. That it came out in the mid-50’s is unfortunate timing.
FWIW, although I have read it, a less daunting manner in which it can be experienced is the Modern Library audio book version (still hefty) read by Edward Hermann, hits the high points pretty well.
There is a unabridged audio version out there as well, but 37 cassettes!
Are you in?
I've always liked Herrmann. I will never forget him in the role of Harry in "Harry's War."