Author
Sam Moskowitz
1920-1997
Sam Moskowitz (1920-1997) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Sam Moskowitz
The Way Back
"The Way Back" by Sam Moskowitz is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The story chronicles the journey of Michel Drawers, a spacefarer who feels lost not only in the cosmos but also in the modern world of Earth. The overarching theme of the narrative revolves around the search for identity and belonging in the vastness of space, as well as the longing for home and connection. In "The Way Back," Michel Drawers, an outcast from Earth, finds himself stranded in a distant galaxy after years of searching for the valuable mineral Roxite. His journey takes a transformative turn when he encounters the inhabitants of a beautiful planet, a peaceful and telepathic race known as the golden people. As he struggles to help them with his knowledge and technology, he discovers a sense of purpose and belonging that he lacked on Earth. The plot evolves as Drawers forms a deep bond with Trajores, a golden woman, leading to a poignant realization that his true path lies not in returning to a world that rejected him, but in embracing the new home he has found among these kind-hearted aliens. The story ultimately explores themes of love, acceptance, and the meaning of home, culminating in an emotional resolution.
World of Mockery
"World of Mockery" by Sam Moskowitz is a science fiction story written during the early 1940s. The narrative follows John Hall, an astronaut who crash-lands on Ganymede, one of Jupiter's moons, and encounters bizarre, grotesque creatures that have an uncanny ability to mimic his actions and thoughts. This tale explores themes of isolation, the nature of humanity, and the surreal connection between mind and body in a strange alien environment. As Hall navigates the desolate and mockingly hostile landscape of Ganymede, he discovers that these creatures not only imitate his physical movements but also begin to reflect his thoughts. Initially entertaining, the situation takes a dire turn when Hall's sanity begins to unravel as the creatures morph into figures from his past, particularly his fiancée, Joan. Struggling under the psychological weight of his circumstances, Hall becomes increasingly paranoid and overwhelmed. Ultimately, the story culminates in a tragic twist that paints a chilling picture of his transformation and unintentional revenge against the very beings that were once a source of amusement, leaving the rescue crew horrified at the outcome of Hall's ordeal.