Author
E. G. Von Wald
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Subjects
Books by E. G. Von Wald
Easy Does It
"Easy Does It" by E. G. Von Wald is a science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around the themes of civilization, conditioning, and the juxtaposition of modern life against a primal wilderness. The protagonist, Hal Webber, finds himself in an unexpected situation where he must navigate his conditioning in a setting far removed from the comforts of his technologically advanced life. The story begins with Hal experiencing tension due to his overdue Civilization Conditioning Treatment, which is necessary to maintain the civilized demeanor expected of him as a member of society. After a catastrophic air crash, he finds himself stranded in the wilderness with Lois Bruchner, an Outlander who embodies the raw and free-spirited nature of life outside of civilization. As they navigate their new reality, Hal experiences a transformation away from his conditioned responses, leading to an exploration of his emotions and instincts. The interactions between him and Lois challenge his perceptions of civilization, ultimately raising questions about what it means to be civilized and the price of emotional suppression. The narrative concludes with Hal returning to his old life, seemingly unchanged yet profoundly aware of the contrast between his previous existence and the untamed freedom he experienced with Lois.
Fair and Warmer
"Fair and Warmer" by E. G. Von Wald is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of intellectual curiosity and the consequences of civilization's emotional numbness and control over natural impulses. Set in a distant future where inhabitants possess telepathic abilities, the story begins to unfold around the central character, Tensor, who finds himself mentally disturbed after encountering a group of primitive aliens. The storyline primarily follows Tensor as he grapples with a peculiar melancholia triggered by his interaction with the aliens, which leads him to a state of nonconformity against the strict social norms of his highly advanced civilization. As Tensor's curiosity grows regarding the aliens and their primitive behaviors, he is forced into an unexpected investigation by the governing Council, which views his condition as a threat to societal stability. Upon making contact with the aliens, particularly a female, Tensor grapples with the awakening of his primal instincts and emotions, challenging his previous understandings of himself and the nature of civilization. The plot develops into a mix of exploration, romance, and a commentary on the balance between progress and the loss of humanity. Ultimately, Tensor's encounters force a reevaluation of the values of his society and the inherent dangers of intellectual curiosity suppressed by civilization's constraints.
Shock Absorber
"Shock Absorber" by E. G. Von Wald is a science fiction narrative that explores themes of military strategy and psychological warfare in a futuristic setting. Written in the mid-20th century, it delves into the complexities of leadership and human behavior against the backdrop of a war between humans and an alien race. The story centers on a group of military personnel dealing with the challenges posed by the newly commissioned Psi Corps officers, who possess extra-rational mental faculties deemed essential for combat. The plot revolves around Commander Frendon, the new captain of a battle-worn space combat ship, who faces skepticism and hostility from his crew, who believe he is a "sickman" affiliated with the Psi Corps. Lieutenant Alton Maise, the executive officer, navigates the subtle tensions among the crew as they grapple with their distrust of Frendon’s leadership, which they believe relies on guesswork rather than strategy. As the narrative unfolds, Frendon struggles to earn the crew's respect while an underlying conspiracy regarding his qualifications emerges, culminating in a ruse to either undermine or discredit him. The characters reflect on loyalty, fear, and survival as they prepare for imminent combat with alien forces. Through these dynamics, Von Wald presents a compelling examination of trust, command, and the psychological strains of warfare.
World Without War
"World Without War" by E. G. Von Wald is a science fiction narrative probably written in the mid-20th century. The story explores a future where people live in manufactured bodies, raising questions about identity, cooperation, and the necessity of social order in a world devoid of war. The narrative centers around themes of personal relationships, societal norms, and the consequences of cooperation among humans. The story follows Mark, who is late for Jennette's birthday party after a fatal encounter while navigating the skies in his aircar. Mark's existential struggles unfold as he grapples with his identity, the concept of using protobodies, and his strong feelings for Jennette. The dialogue emphasizes a conflict between their manufactured lives and the desire for genuine connection, revealing their discontent with a system that discourages natural human interaction and emotions. As they flirt with the idea of a "marriage agreement," they confront the fear that fostering such relationships could lead to chaotic cooperation, reminiscent of the era when wars were fought by large groups of people. In the end, while Mark and Jennette’s bond hints at rebellion against societal norms, they ultimately choose to conform to the existing social order.