Here and Hereafter

by Barry Pain

"Here and Hereafter" by Barry Pain is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The opening tale, "Mala," introduces the character of a medical doctor as he encounters a fair-haired man named Tarn, who urgently seeks his assistance for his wife, a negress, who is in labor. This piece delves into themes of race, social position, and the complexities of human emotions surrounding life and death. At the start of the story, the doctor leaves his comfortable surroundings to assist the distressed Tarn, who lives in a remote area called Felonsdene. As they journey together, the doctor learns more about Tarn's life and his foreign wife, Mala. The narrative is imbued with a sense of suspense and curiosity as the doctor grapples with his feelings about the couple’s unconventional situation and the strange aura that surrounds their remote home, setting the stage for deeper explorations of identity, love, and existential concerns as the story unfolds.