Author
Charles E. Fritch
1927-2012
Charles E. Fritch (1927-2012) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Charles E. Fritch
Come into my parlor
"Come into my parlor" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction novella written during the early 1950s. The story revolves around themes of perception and reality, exploring the thin line between sanity and madness in the context of a bizarre phenomenon. It employs elements of psychological horror as it delves into the mind of a character grappling with disturbing visions and conspiratorial thoughts. The narrative follows Charlie Bennet, a newspaper reporter, and his troubled friend Johnny, who becomes obsessed with the idea that there are giant, invisible spiders lurking in the sky and disguising themselves as humans. After Johnny reveals a special pair of glasses he created to see these supposed arachnids, Charlie initially dismisses his claims as drunken ramblings. However, as the story unfolds, Johnny's paranoia escalates, leading to a tragic confrontation between the two friends. The tale builds tension as Charlie battles to save himself from Johnny’s increasing delusion and the violent expressions of his panic, culminating in a shocking climax that leaves readers questioning the nature of reality itself.
Office call
"Office Call" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around Dr. Rawlings, a psychiatrist, and his encounters with peculiar patients that challenge his understanding of reality and sanity. The primary topic delves into themes of mental instability, alternate realities, and the implications of advanced scientific theories in a way that intertwines psychological insight with a touch of the fantastical. In the story, Dr. Rawlings is visited by Charles T. Moore, a theoretical mathematician who believes he has discovered a way to access alternate universes through his theories on space and time. After sharing an astounding account of how he inadvertently brought a woman from Mars into his life, Moore seeks Rawlings' help in regaining his control over this phenomenon. The tale unfolds as Dr. Rawlings grapples with the reality of Moore's experiences while dealing with his own frustrations and fantasies, including thoughts of a much-coveted chicken farm. The story culminates in a twist that leaves the psychiatrist questioning the nature of his own reality, highlighting the thin line between madness and genius in a world where the extraordinary could easily seep into the mundane.
Breathes there a man
"Breathes there a man" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 1950s, a time when themes of government control and societal structure were increasingly prevalent in literature. Set in a future where people's lives are regulated by the oppressive Super State, the story revolves around protagonist Arthur Dunlop, who becomes embroiled in intrigue and espionage as he discovers that a World Bureau of Investigation (WBI) agent is among his coworkers. The narrative explores themes of freedom, conformity, and rebellion against a soulless regime that taxes even the air people breathe. The storyline follows Arthur Dunlop as he navigates the oppressive constraints of his government's control, coupled with personal deception and danger. While working on designs for a respirator meant for a polluted world, he receives a cryptic warning about a WBI agent in his office, igniting suspicion and paranoia. As Arthur engages with characters like Julie, a member of the underground resistance, and faces threats from robotic enforcers and government officials, he grapples with his own loyalties and the system's deceit. The plot intensifies as he becomes a target of both the authorities and his own colleagues, culminating in a trial that thrusts him into a Lunar Prison Colony, where a deeper plan involving rebellion against the government is revealed. Ultimately, the novel examines the struggle for freedom in a world where individualism is stifled, and a surprising alliance forms for a potential uprising against the harsh regime.
The Big Leap
"The Big Leap" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The book explores the psychological and existential themes surrounding space exploration, focusing on the character of Cantrell, who is preparing for a pivotal journey to the moon. The narrative dives into the complexities of human psychology when faced with the vast uncertainties of space, particularly the fear of the unknown. In the story, Cantrell is an astronaut grappling with his aversion to animals, shaped by a childhood trauma from a dog attack. As he embarks on a groundbreaking mission to the moon, he confronts not only the physical challenges of space travel but also the psychological demons that accompany him. During his flight, he experiences a bizarre transformation when he perceives Earth as a living creature, and he ultimately rejects the reality of being a parasite on this "space-animal." His mental unraveling raises questions about perception, sanity, and the nature of existence, as those left behind must confront the implications of his revelations. The narrative culminates in a powerful exploration of the limits of human understanding in the grand scale of the universe.
Once Upon a Monbeast...
"Once Upon a Monbeast..." by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction short story written during the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around the struggles of a fledgling science-fiction writer who encounters the whimsical and possibly dangerous consequences of his own imagination when he brings a creature from his writing to reality. The story blends humor and a hint of existentialism as it explores the relationship between creativity and the potential perils that come with it. The plot follows an unnamed protagonist who is initially disheartened by the harsh criticism from the established writer Donald MacDonald. Despite feeling demoralized, he continues to write and eventually receives a publication acceptance, which excites him. However, when he creates a story about a creature called the monbeast, that very creature unexpectedly appears in his life, leading to bizarre and humorous interactions. The monbeast reveals its true nature as a product of the author's imagination and emphasizes that now the responsibility lies with the writer to create more compelling beings, hinting at the inescapable bond between a creator and their creations. The story ends on an eerie note, suggesting that such creatures might be lurking just beyond the veil of reality, leaving readers to ponder the implications of their creative endeavors.
Escape Mechanism
"Escape Mechanism" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. Set in a futuristic world, the narrative explores themes of escape from reality and self-discovery through the character of Abby Martin, who grapples with her dreams and the implications of her past. The story delves into the emotional landscape of loneliness and the search for connection in a mechanically governed society. The plot centers around Abby Martin, a guardian to her niece Linda, who often reflects on her life and the challenges of navigating a world dominated by technology and superficial relationships. As Abby experiences vivid dreams related to an amoeba creature from Venus, her life becomes entangled with themes of isolation, motherhood, and the consequences of her choices. The arrival of Dr. Gower, a medical professional with whom Abby has a complicated relationship, forces her to confront painful truths about her past, including the possibility that Linda is her biological daughter. Ultimately, the story culminates in Abby's struggle for self-acceptance and the meaning of true escape, revealing that often the most significant journey is within oneself.
Skin Game
"Skin Game" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction novel likely written in the early to mid-1950s. The story revolves around a con-artist duo, Harding and Sheckly, who engage in schemes to swindle the alien inhabitants of outer planets. The narrative explores themes of deception and cultural misunderstanding in a setting far removed from Earth. The plot follows Harding and Sheckly as they arrive on a planet inhabited by humanoid lizard creatures. Despite Sheckly's unease about their intentions, Harding is confident they can easily exploit the locals. However, their plans take a dark turn when they discover that the lizard aliens intend to "help" them shed their skins literally, as they have misunderstood the nature of the human con. Sheckly's desperate attempts to escape highlight the tension between their criminal intentions and the horrifying realization of their imminent fate. The story culminates with a twist, leaving readers questioning the true nature of deception and survival in a world where roles can suddenly reverse.
Danger in the Void
"Danger in the Void" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, specifically published in the 1950s. The story revolves around a tense and unconventional marital conflict set against the backdrop of a space journey to Arcturus, where the protagonist, Silvia, secretly plans to divorce her android husband, George. This personal struggle is compounded by the unexpected temptation of murder introduced by a mysterious stranger on board the spaceship. The narrative unfolds as Silvia grapples with her emotions towards George, navigating her desire for freedom from an unsatisfying marriage and the moral implications of an illicit proposal presented by a man representing a shadowy organization. As tensions rise on their voyage, mechanical failures aboard the ship lead to an unforeseen crisis, forcing Silvia to reconsider her choices. Ultimately, amidst the chaos of a spaceship disaster, the couple confronts issues of love, identity, and the essence of humanity, culminating in a poignant reevaluation of their relationship and the path they wish to take together.
The Pacifists
"The Pacifists" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction novel first published in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around a group of Earthmen exploring an alien planet that appears to be desolate and populated by people who exist in a bizarre state of detachment from reality. The book explores themes of human nature, conflict, and the consequences of a society that purges violence at the expense of vigilance against potential dangers. In the narrative, three Earthmen, Hinckley, Compton, and Parker, land on an enigmatic planet where they encounter humanoid beings that seem oblivious to their presence. As they investigate, they discover that the inhabitants live in a kind of mass hypnosis, disconnected from reality. While Hinckley and Compton grapple with the implications of this revelation, Parker, motivated by selfish desires, goes off on his own. Eventually, he confronts the people he underestimated, only to meet a violent end at their hands. This outcome underscores the dangers of complacency and the illusion of safety in a world that has stripped away the instincts for survival.
The Odyssey of Sam Meecham
"The Odyssey of Sam Meecham" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story follows the unlikely protagonist, Sam Meecham, a meek government worker who discovers an atomic engine with unlimited power, leading him to break free from his mundane life and venture into space. The book explores themes of personal transformation, the quest for freedom, and the struggle against domestic dissatisfaction. In this narrative, Sam Meecham is depicted as a frail man trapped in a mundane job as an atomic engine inspector, feeling constrained by both his work and his marriage to Dorothy, who represents his past disappointments. After an unexpected event reveals the potential of a hyperdrive engine, Sam decides to seize the opportunity to explore the stars, ultimately defying Dorothy's control over their lives. As he prepares for his journey, he grapples with fears and insecurities but ultimately chooses to not only pursue his dreams but to embrace a new beginning with Dorothy by his side. The tale culminates in their departure into the cosmos, symbolizing both Sam's liberation and the rekindling of their relationship.
I Like Martian Music
"I Like Martian Music" by Charles E. Fritch is a science fiction short story written during the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of creativity and the quest for artistic fulfillment in an imaginative Martian setting, where music possesses both cultural significance and emotional depth. The story revolves around the challenges faced by the protagonist, Longtree, as he strives to complete his symphony in time for a music festival that could change his life. The plot unfolds with Longtree, a Martian musician, grappling with the elusive final note of his symphony, which he believes is key to winning the festival and securing his marriage to Redsand. As he seeks inspiration, his friend Channeljumper introduces him to a pair of alien visitors from Earth. In a twist of fate, Longtree inadvertently discovers that the final note of his composition can be found within the sounds produced by one of the aliens—resulting in a tragic yet profound conclusion. Delving into themes of sacrifice and the relationship between art and existence, the story ultimately highlights the lengths one might go to achieve their creative vision.