The Hanging Stranger

by Philip K. Dick

"The Hanging Stranger" by Philip K. Dick is a science fiction-horror short story published in December 1953. When store owner Ed Loyce discovers a body hanging from a lamppost, he's horrified that no one else seems disturbed by it. His alarm sets off a desperate investigation that reveals a sinister truth about his town. As Loyce searches for answers about what has changed in his community, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy that threatens everyone around him.