Disowned
"Disowned" by Victor A. Endersby is a science fiction novella written during the early 20th century. The narrative explores a bizarre and tragic incident involving two brothers, Jim and Tristan, in which an otherworldly electrical phenomenon leaves Tristan forever altered, experiencing an inversion of gravity that forces him to navigate life upside down. The story grapples with themes of human resilience, the unknown consequences of scientific phenomena, and the complexities of dependence within personal relationships. The plot begins with the three characters—Jim, Tristan, and Alice—caught in a thunderstorm, where they encounter a strange glowing object that results in an electric shock. This incident leads to Tristan's peculiar condition where he is seemingly defying gravity. As the story unfolds, Tristan must adapt to his new reality, where the very concept of up and down is radically altered. This peculiar twist generates a mixture of horror and fascination, as the trio navigates societal repercussions, personal struggles, and ultimately Tristan's decision to embrace his unusual fate as a performer, leading to a public career that culminates in tragedy. The narrative meticulously blends elements of suspense and emotional depth, ultimately exploring how individuals cope with extraordinary circumstances.