Subject
Courts -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry Still
Sales Resistance
"Sales Resistance" by Henry Still is a science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative unfolds in a society where consumerism is deeply embedded in culture, illustrating the extreme pressures individuals face to conform to the expectations of constant consumption and the reverence of sales personnel. The story likely explores themes related to individuality versus societal demands and critiques the pervasive influence of consumerism. The plot centers around Perry Mansfield, a young man struggling with his identity in a world that equates worth with consumption. After receiving a visit from a Master Salesman, Marlboro, who seeks to sell him an advanced appliance known as the Serve-All, Perry experiences pushing pressure to conform to the societal norm of relentless buying. Despite his initial desire to resist, he finds himself summoned to court for not wanting to purchase the device, showcasing the alarming consequences of non-compliance in this consumer-driven society. Ultimately, the tale highlights Perry's struggle for autonomy against a system that prioritizes consumption over personal choice, culminating in an ironic twist that underscores the story's critique of the consumer culture.
Norman Arkawy
Night Court
"Night Court" by Norman Arkawy is a thought-provoking short story written in the mid-20th century. This piece, set within a dystopian vision of New York City, explores themes of societal judgment and the moral implications of entertainment derived from the suffering of others. The narrative unfolds in a grotesque courtroom, which serves as a spectacle for an audience that derives pleasure from the humiliation and punishment of the "undesirables." In the story, Julie, a reluctant first-time visitor, accompanies her enthusiastic friend Stan to the Night Court, where they witness a series of bizarre and grotesque cases involving homeless men who lack identification cards. As the proceedings unfold, the audience erupts in laughter and applause, relishing the misery of the defendants. Julie grows increasingly uncomfortable and horrified with the proceedings, ultimately realizing that the court represents a cruel mockery of justice and a societal failure to address the underlying issues faced by those being judged. The story culminates in Julie’s understanding of the dark truth behind the spectacle and serves as a critique of societal indifference towards the marginalized.
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