Author
Dave Dryfoos
1915-2003
Dave Dryfoos (1915-2003) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Dave Dryfoos
Journey Work
"Journey Work" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction short story originally published in the mid-20th century, specifically in 1955. Set in a future where aging individuals face societal challenges, the narrative primarily focuses on the struggles and aspirations of Ollie Hollveg, an elderly tomato picker, as he navigates a world that devalues the old in favor of youth-driven efficiency. The likely topic of the book explores themes of ageism, survival, and the quest for purpose amidst technological advancements and societal neglect. The story follows Ollie, a 70-year-old man, who finds himself marginalized in a society that deems him incompetent simply due to his age. After a confrontation with a rancher results in Ollie being jailed, he learns about a potential job that requires older men for dangerous scientific experiments. The journey leads Ollie through a series of challenges as he ultimately attempts to stow away on a train to reach the job site. However, he unexpectedly ends up being selected for a pioneering role in manned space travel, which offers him a chance for renewal, purpose, and adventure. Through Ollie's journey, the narrative reflects on the themes of resilience and the intrinsic value of experience in a rapidly changing world.
Bridge Crossing
"Bridge Crossing" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction narrative written during the early 21st century. The story unfolds in a post-apocalyptic setting marked by the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. Themes of identity, belonging, and the nature of humanity are prevalent as the protagonist navigates a world dominated by android soldiers and a faction of humans referred to as "Invaders". The book primarily explores the internal conflict of its central character, Roddie, who grapples with his unique existence and a desire to prove his worth among beings that appear mechanized and superior. The plot centers around Roddie, who has grown up in a city largely protected by android soldiers after a catastrophe devastated the world. As Roddie interacts with Molly, his caretaker, and the other soldiers, he feels increasingly alienated due to his humanity. The arrival of an Invader girl, Ida, shifts the dynamic, presenting Roddie with a conflict about loyalty and understanding. As they journey together towards the ruined Golden Gate Bridge, Roddie grapples with his perception of the world and begins to question what constitutes superiority and purpose. Throughout their encounters, Roddie discovers the emotional depth of humanity, culminating in a transformative realization that leads him to acknowledge his identity as a human being rather than a mere construct of a bygone era.
Preferred Position
"Preferred Position" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction story written in the early 1950s. It explores the theme of ennui in a future society where boredom and idleness have become commonplace due to technological advancements that provide leisure without the need for work. The narrative follows a couple, Les and Janet, who grapple with their meaningless existence in a world devoid of challenge or real purpose, prompting them to consider a life of employment. The story centers around Les and Janet as they navigate their tedious lives characterized by automated conveniences and perpetual leisure. Les, feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of living another sixty-five years without any excitement or risk, is encouraged by Janet to apply for a job, which they believe could bring some purpose back into their lives. Ultimately, Les earns the position of rigger and high-climber, igniting a spark of hope and anticipation for their future. The tale emphasizes the human need for purpose, activity, and the unpredictability that makes life engaging.
Seller of the Sky
"Seller of the Sky" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around Old Arch, a beggar and storyteller who travels between domed cities, sharing tales of the "Outside" world that the city dwellers have never seen. The story reflects on themes of curiosity, adventure, and the contrasts between sheltered living and the beauty of nature. In this poignant tale, Old Arch uses his vivid narratives to ignite curiosity among the children of the domed cities. He sells "stock certificates" for shares of the sky, promising to take them outside one day. Eventually, he undertakes this journey with the young siblings, guiding them through the harsh but exhilarating experience of a snowstorm. They witness a breathtaking sunrise, only to have Old Arch succumb to the cold. His passing becomes a catalyst for the city’s residents; their newfound curiosity compels them to break free from their confines, leading them to explore the wild world that they had previously only known through Arch's stories. The story concludes with a profound change in the community as they rebel against their sheltered existence, culminating in both loss and a yearning for discovery.
Sign of Life
"Sign of Life" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. It follows George Main, the sole survivor of a failed expedition to Venus, as he grapples with his impending death amidst the deadly environment of the planet and encounters an unexpected form of life. The narrative delves into themes of survival, the quest for understanding, and the essence of communication between different forms of life. The story begins with George struggling to survive after the destruction of his spaceship, left in a harsh landscape filled with deadly winds and toxic air. As he battles dehydration and despair, he notices peculiar teardrop-shaped creatures that seem to exhibit curiosity about him and their surroundings. In his final hours, he attempts to bridge the gap between their existence and his, hoping to convey that he was alive, not just a lifeless machine. This interaction prompts deep reflections on life, awareness, and the significance of memory as he confronts his mortality, ultimately seeking solace in the possibility that his existence may be remembered by these newfound life forms.
New Hire
"New Hire" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction story written in the early 21st century. The narrative follows Boswell W. Budge, a man grappling with the societal expectations that come with turning forty, marking a significant shift in his life as he must transition from a life of leisure to employment. The book explores themes of work, aging, and societal norms in a futuristic setting. The plot centers on Bozzy, who, on the pivotal morning of his 40th birthday, prepares to take over a job from an older colleague, Mr. Kojac. As he navigates his feelings of dread and reluctance about entering the workforce, his interactions with his family and colleagues reveal a comedic yet poignant perspective on societal pressures. After a ceremonial passing of roles, Bozzy ultimately confronts the reality of his new responsibilities and the absurdity of his situation, culminating in a darkly humorous ending that highlights the underlying tensions about aging and the lifecycle of work in their advanced society.
Uniform of a Man
"Uniform of a Man" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction novella that was originally published in the early 1950s. The story revolves around Chet Barfield, an Earth astronaut who finds himself stranded and enslaved on an alien planet called Hedlot, where he endures years of captivity at the hands of the Agvars, a savage, dog-like race. The narrative explores themes of survival, revenge, and the complexities of moral judgment in the face of cultural differences. The plot follows Chet’s journey from captivity to rescue, where he is eventually retrieved by fellow astronauts after signaling for help. As he grapples with his harrowing experiences, Chet is confronted with conflicting views on how to deal with the Agvars, particularly by Dr. Pine, who advocates for understanding and study rather than vengeance. The tension escalates as Chet is torn between his desire for revenge against his captors and the diplomatic approach suggested by his rescuers. Ultimately, the novella delves into the struggles of reconciling one’s past traumas with the expectations of a civilized society, as Chet finds himself needing to adapt to his new reality while grappling with the moral implications of his experiences.
Waste Not, Want
"Waste Not, Want" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of consumption and societal expectations, set in a dystopian future where personal choice and individuality are sacrificed for the sake of consumption and economic stability. The narrative follows an elderly mechanical engineer, Fred Lubway, as he grapples with the pressures of a consumerist society that mandates he utilize every resource available, even after the loss of his life partner, Tillie. The story centers on Fred’s struggle against a mechanical and emotionless world that enforces strict consumption habits through the intervention of what are referred to as "ration-cops." After coping with the grief of losing Tillie, Fred is forced to adapt to the demands of a society that values productivity and consumption over personal happiness or contentment. His frustration builds as he confronts the absurdity of his existence: constantly producing technology just to be required to consume it and facing penalties for underconsumption. The narrative culminates in a confrontation with authority as the ration-cops attempt to "correct" Fred’s dissatisfaction through brain surgery, symbolizing the ultimate loss of personal autonomy in a society that prioritizes economic output over individual well-being.
Tree, Spare that Woodman
"Tree, Spare that Woodman" by Dave Dryfoos is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of fear and the unknown as humanity grapples with the mysterious and possibly sentient forest life on an alien planet. This book delves into the psychological impact of fear, particularly when characters confront entities that challenge their sense of safety and understanding of reality. The narrative centers around Naomi Heckscher, who, along with her husband, Ted, discovers the body of their neighbor, Cappy, under alarming circumstances. As they come to terms with the deaths that have occurred on the planet linked to the unnerving "tree-things," it becomes clear that fear is a weapon these entities exploit. The story unfolds as Naomi struggles to protect her young son, Richard, from the trees that appear to be intelligent and able to manipulate minds based on one's fears. The tension escalates as Naomi faces the terrifying prospect of her son being drawn into the trees' influence, ultimately leading to a confrontation that blurs the line between reality and imagination. Throughout the story, the psychological torment of fear and its potential for destruction plays a central role, weaving a compelling tale of survival in an uncertain world.