I think the main theme of "By the Waters of Babylon" is the importance of knowledge. That theme is a double edged sword though. Knowledge is important to have and not lose, but it is equally important to not abuse.
Throughout the story, the reader is learning about the world through the limited view of John. Things seem vaguely familiar, but completely different. Eventually the reader learns that the story is taking place in a far off future in a world that has been destroyed by nuclear war. All of the technology and learning of hundreds of years before has been lost, and the world has reverted to tribal origins and deep superstitions. The story ends with John vowing to bring back the lost knowledge to his people, so that they can once again be great.
The other side of the importance of knowledge though comes as a warning from Benet. John tells his readers that the "gods" had gotten too powerful in their knowledge. Their learning accelerated beyond their ability to control it and its technologies. The consequence was the destruction of the world.
I saw them with wisdom beyond wisdom and knowledge beyond knowledge. And yet not all they did was well done—even I could see that, and yet their wisdom could not but grow until all was peace
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