Author
Robert Zacks
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Subjects
Books by Robert Zacks
From outer space
"From Outer Space" by Robert Zacks is a science fiction story originally published in the early 1950s. Set in a distant future where humanity faces extraterrestrial contact, the narrative confronts themes of communication, understanding, and the repercussions of first encounters with alien life forms. This short story captures the essence of humanity's fate when confronted with the unknown, exploring the fragility of civilization in the face of superior beings. The plot revolves around an old space veteran who recounts to a group of young, eager listeners the events leading to humanity's downfall. The story begins with Earth's first contact through telepathic messages from aliens who initially express confusion over humanity's status. As Earth prepares for an encounter, panic ensues, leading to military readiness. However, this results in the aliens controlling the planet after witnessing humanity's violent preparations, mistaking a cultural scene for a predatory threat. The story culminates in a poignant twist as these aliens, who evolved from pigs, decide to place humanity in bondage, showcasing the ironic consequences of misunderstanding and fear.
The Freelancer
"The Freelancer" by Robert Zacks is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The narrative is set in a dystopian future where copyright laws have extended to everyday speech, leading to a society consumed by the enforcement of verbal property rights. The story centers around the struggles of Jeb, a freelance Monitor who makes a living identifying and reporting these violations, often at the expense of genuine human interaction and connection. The plot follows Jeb as he navigates a day filled with both personal and professional challenges. His strained relationship with his wife, Laurie, looms large as she threatens to have him certified for non-support if he fails to bring home enough credits. As he embarks on his daily rounds, Jeb encounters various citizens, revealing a world marked by desperation and the harsh realities of a system that penalizes common expressions. A turning point occurs when he discovers a significant opportunity tied to political speeches, leading him into a dangerous situation with powerful figures. Ultimately, the story serves as a commentary on individuality and expression in a society constrained by increasingly absurd regulations, leaving readers to ponder the implications of such a reality.
Don't Shoot
"Don't Shoot" by Robert Zacks is a science fiction story that was originally published in the mid-20th century, specifically in 1955. This narrative combines elements of humor and satire, particularly exploring the movie industry and its absurdities. The central theme revolves around an innovative invention that has unintended consequences, linking the fantastical notion of the Abominable Snowman to the world of Hollywood. The story follows an unnamed young physicist who, after developing a revolutionary optical invention, finds himself entangled with Mr. Eammer, a ruthless and greedy movie mogul. Initially seeking a way to save his failing studio from the onslaught of television, Eammer enlists the scientist to help him capitalize on a sensationalized version of the Abominable Snowman. However, a malfunction in the physicist's experiment turns Eammer into a tiny and vulnerable version of himself, prompting a mix of comedic and precarious situations. Ultimately, the narrative culminates in a departure from Eammer, as the scientist attempts to prevent his dangerous invention from falling into the wrong hands while ensuring the safety of Mary, his love interest, and the plot’s moral integrity.