Bryce Walton
Freeway
"Freeway" by Bryce Walton is a science fiction story that was published in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1950s. The narrative centers on a dystopian society where individuals, deemed as potential threats or "Crackpots," are sentenced to perpetual motion on the highways, unable to stop without permission. The story explores themes of freedom, control, and the human condition against the backdrop of an oppressive system. The plot follows Stan and Anna Morrison, a couple trapped in this mechanical existence who desperately seek a way to regain their freedom. Stan, a former professor, battles with the authorities while trying to secure help for his mentally unstable wife, Anna. As they navigate the perils of their situation, they confront both external threats from the law enforcement that monitors their every move and internal struggles as their relationship strains under the pressures of isolation and fear. Ultimately, their journey leads to a rebellion against their imposed restrictions, culminating in a dramatic escape to a hidden safe haven where they can break free from the metaphorical and literal confines of the so-called Freeway. The narrative offers a poignant commentary on societal constraints and the essence of human resilience.