At the Post

by H. L. (Horace Leonard) Gold

"At the Post" by H. L. Gold is a science fiction story written in the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around Clocker Locke, a race handicapper who, grappling with the mental breakdown of his wife Zelda, discovers a bizarre and compelling intersection of humanity and extraterrestrial beings. The book explores themes of identity, love, and the specter of human extinction in a richly imagined universe where mental states and emotional realities are deeply intertwined with alien interventions. The story unfolds as Clocker, motivated by a desperate longing to save his wife, delves into the world of catatonic patients and their peculiar routines. He theorizes that these patients, including Zelda, are unwittingly engaged in an otherworldly task under the influence of benevolent alien beings seeking to record human history. As Clocker navigates through emotional conflicts and cognitive challenges, he ultimately strikes a deal for Zelda's freedom while committing to help the aliens document humanity's legacy. The story culminates in a surprising twist as Clocker's efforts inspire others to reclaim their agency, pushing against the impending doom of human extinction while solidifying the story's message about the power of love and determination amidst despair.