Greg ___, author of the 1994 science fiction novel “Permutation City”

EGAN

This Australian writer often explores complex themes like consciousness and mathematics in his hard sci-fi works; his last name sounds like a common first name.

This clue asks for the last name of the author behind the 1994 sci-fi novel Permutation City. The answer is "EGAN," referring to Greg Egan, a well-known Australian writer specializing in hard science fiction and mathematical themes. The clue is straightforward—no wordplay or tricks—just a direct reference to his work. If you’ve read the book or follow sci-fi literature, the name should click immediately.