Subject
Cemeteries -- Fiction Books
Best books
James V. McConnell
Nor Dust Corrupt
"Nor Dust Corrupt" by James V. McConnell is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around Joseph Krieg, a wealthy man from the galaxy who seeks burial on Earth, specifically in Manhattan Park, a prestigious burial ground. The narrative explores themes of mortality, desire, and the sociopolitical implications surrounding death and burial customs in a future where Earth acts as a significant yet congested ancestral home. The plot unfolds as Consolator Steen, a representative of Earth’s burial services, meets with Krieg to discuss his request. Steen paints a grim picture of the burial options available on Earth due to severe space limitations—most people are cremated and stored in small cubes, while only the richest, including the legendary C.T. Anderman, can expect to be buried in a prestigious location like Manhattan Park. As the conversation progresses, Krieg is led to question the worth of his wealth in pursuit of a burial plot. Ultimately, in a twist, he decides against spending his fortune on such a luxury, recognizing the futility of it all while hinting at a deeper insight into the politics surrounding death and legacy. The story ends with a lingering sense of irony about ambition, legacy, and the natural cycle of life and death.
Charles Egbert Craddock
In the "Stranger People's" country : $b A novel
"In the 'Stranger People's' Country" by Charles Egbert Craddock is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative intertwines elements of folklore and Appalachian culture, focusing on the mysterious "Leetle People," who are believed to be a lost race buried within the Great Smoky Mountains. The central characters appear to include Stephen Yates, his wife Adelaide, and their idolized child "leetle Mose," whose bond with his mother provides a backdrop to the unfolding events. The opening of the novel introduces the haunting surroundings where the forgotten pygmy dwellers rest in their graves, stirring curiosity and superstition among the local mountaineers. In a conversation between Stephen and Adelaide, the significance of the Leetle People emerges, as they discuss the valley man's enthusiasm for them and the implications of resurrecting their forgotten memory. Adelaide seems particularly affected by their lore, visualizing them as innocent children waiting to greet a new dawn. Meanwhile, tensions build as Stephen expresses skepticism about the valley man's intent to excavate their burial grounds, showcasing the clash between folklore reverence and scientific curiosity, ultimately setting the stage for a deeper exploration of themes of heritage, identity, and the unknown.
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