What binds us all -- Our energy past: does it hold any lessons? -- Our energy present: global trends and what they mean -- Oil reality: burning questions -- Natural gas: the lighter side of fossil fuels -- Coal: once and future king? -- The great debate: when will the wells run dry? -- Nuclear power: a new context, changing views -- Renewable energy 1: the real and the possible -- Renewable energy 2: sources, technologies, limitations -- Hydrogen: forever fuel, or wishful thinking? -- Fusion energy: some like it hot -- Geopolitics and energy: an evolving geography -- The technology imperative: some reflections -- Climate change and energy: playing with fire, air, earth, and water -- Conclusion: final thoughts on new beginnings.